Overview
Digitalis parviflora is a perennial herbaceous in the genus Digitalis, part of the Plantaginaceae family. Digitalis parviflora grows best in partial shade and full sun, and tolerates well-drained and sandy or loamy soils and neutral to slightly acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders and woodland gardens. It is native to N. Spain.
About
Digitalis parviflora is a perennial herbaceous foxglove prized for its summer display of flowers between June and August. It tolerates a range of light from partial shade to full sun and favours moist but well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. The plant is rated H5 for UK hardiness (hardy) and suits borders and woodland gardens. All parts are toxic if eaten, so wear gloves when handling and keep it away from pets.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Digitalis parviflora
About the genus
Digitalis is a genus of about 20 species of herbaceous perennial plants, shrubs, and biennials, commonly called foxgloves.
Wikipedia contributors, "Digitalis", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Digitalis
In the garden
A member of the genus Digitalis, Digitalis parviflora originates from northern Spain and is grown in the UK for mid-summer flowering (June to August). As a perennial herbaceous plant it returns from the rootstock, producing its seasonal display through the summer months. Place small-flowered foxglove where it receives partial shade or full sun; morning sun with afternoon shade suits many UK sites. It prefers moist but well-drained conditions and performs best in sandy or loamy soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. The H5 hardiness rating means it is considered hardy in most UK gardens, tolerating typical winter conditions without the need for indoor protection. Use it in mixed borders or woodland garden schemes where moisture and dappled light are available. Given its toxicity, position it away from vegetable plots and locations frequented by children or pets, and wear gloves when pruning or moving plants. For gardeners who need further safety guidance, consult the HTA resources on potentially harmful plants to identify local contacts and advice.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Digitalis
- Sunlight
- partial shade, full sun
- Soil type
- well-drained, sandy or loamy
- Soil pH
- neutral to slightly acidic
- Soil moisture
- moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Digitalis parviflora size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial herbaceous
- Suggested uses
- borders, woodland gardens
- Native to
- N. Spain
- Toxicity
- TOXIC if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling TOXIC to pets - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Digitalis parviflora
- Cultivation
- Prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Avoid waterlogging.
- Pruning
- Remove spent flower spikes to encourage further blooming.
- Propagation
- Seed, division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Digitalis parviflora?
Prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Avoid waterlogging.
Where is the best place to plant Digitalis parviflora?
Digitalis parviflora prefers partial shade and full sun.
What soil does Digitalis parviflora need?
Digitalis parviflora grows best in well-drained and sandy or loamy soil. It prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Digitalis parviflora?
Remove spent flower spikes to encourage further blooming.
Is Digitalis parviflora hardy in the UK?
Digitalis parviflora has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Digitalis parviflora?
Seed, division.
Is Digitalis parviflora toxic?
TOXIC if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling TOXIC to pets - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers.
