Digitalis grandiflora (syn. D. ambigua) - Yellow Foxglove

10 open pollinated seeds from our gardens.
 
Digitalis grandiflora is a short-lived, clump-forming perennial native to woods and stream banks from central Europe to Turkey and Siberia.  It is tolerant of dry shade but flourishes with moisture. Arising in midsummer from neat clumps of fine-toothed foliage, a mass of soft yellow open bells, speckled brown inside, blooms along one side of 90cm tall stem.
 
Foxgloves have a vase life of 5 to 10 days. Pick the spikes when half of the bell-like flowers are open. Condition spikes overnight in warm water. Wilted spikes can be revived by placing them in hot water after the spike has been recut. Remove spikes when they have revived.
 
Seeds are sown direct or in pots in autumn or at the start of spring. Do not cover seed s as light aids germination. Water and keep damp but not wet.  Germination is between 2 and 4 weeks when temperatues are around 15 to 20C. Grow plants to around 10cm and transplant into the garden. 
 
Note - like all species in this genus, this plant contains poisonous properties and should never be eaten. Wear gloves when handling and wash hands afterwards.