Step into the world of botanical marvels with this weird and wonderful foxglove.
At first glance, this foxglove appears like any other, until the pinnacle flower unfurls, unveiling a breathtaking surprise – a huge, upward-facing, bell-shaped flower crowning the spire! Digitalis purpurea ‘Monstrosa’ features blooms in speckled shades of purple, pink and white. It makes a rare and eye-catching addition to borders in partial shade. Weave it in drifts for the most impressive effect. Height: 120cm (47in). Spread: 45cm (18in).
Sowing Information
Sow January-May on the surface of a good free draining, damp seed compost and place at a temperature of at 18-29C (65-85F). Lightly cover the seed with vermiculite. Place in a propagator or seal container inside a polythene bag until after germination which usually takes 14-30 days. Do not exclude light, as this helps germination.
Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle into trays or 7.5cm (3in) pots. Gradually acclimatise plants to cooler conditions for a few weeks before planting out after all risk of frost, 45-60cm (18-24in) apart. An early sowing will occasionally produce flowers in the same year.
