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Digitalis Ferruginea

Digitalis ferruginea

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verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

A stately biennial or short-lived perennial bearing tall spikes of small, rust-brown and yellow tubular flowers that bloom mid to late summer. It is more heat- and drought-tolerant than common foxglove. Self-seeds readily in suitable conditions.

Common Problems

Select the problem your Digitalis Ferruginea is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Yellow Leaveschevron_right

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Care Guide

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Light

Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of sun); tolerates more sun than D. purpurea.

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Water

Moderate watering; once established, fairly drought-tolerant. Water during dry spells and in early growth; reduce after flowering.

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Soil

Well-draining, moderate fertility soil. Tolerates sandy or gravelly soil better than other digitalis. pH 6.0–7.5 acceptable.

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Fertiliser

Light feeding in spring or at planting with balanced fertilizer. Excessive nitrogen reduces flowering; avoid over-fertilizing.

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Temperature

Cool to warm season; hardy to cold. Prefers 60–75 °F. More heat-tolerant than common foxglove.

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Humidity

Moderate humidity; good air circulation essential to prevent fungal disease. Drought-tolerant once established.

Toxicity

dangerousToxic to CatsdangerousToxic to DogsdangerousToxic to Children

All parts are highly toxic; contains cardiac glycosides. Ingestion causes nausea, vomiting, arrhythmia, and potentially fatal cardiac effects.

Common Diseases

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Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is Digitalis Ferruginea different from common foxglove?

It's more heat- and drought-tolerant than common foxglove, with rust-brown and yellow tubular flowers rather than the typical pink or purple spotted blooms.

Is Digitalis Ferruginea safe to grow around pets?

No — all parts are highly toxic and contain cardiac glycosides, causing nausea, vomiting, arrhythmia, and potentially fatal cardiac effects if ingested.