Foxglove Lutea RHS Seeds

Digitalis lutea, commonly known as Small Yellow Foxglove, is an elegant perennial treasured for its delicate, pale-yellow, bell-shaped flowers that cascade gracefully along slender stems.

 

The name Digitalis originates from the Latin word for “finger,” referring to the glove-like shape of its blooms. The specific epithet lutea highlights its charming yellow colouring. Unlike its larger cousins, this variety is subtle and refined, making it ideal for naturalistic planting schemes or woodland-inspired gardens.

 

Recognised as part of the RHS seed scheme, Foxglove Lutea offers gardeners reliable germination and excellent garden performance. Its nectar-rich flowers attract bees and other pollinators throughout the summer, enhancing biodiversity in any setting.

 

This hardy perennial thrives in well-drained soil, preferring a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Happy in full sun or partial shade, it grows to a height of 60 - 90 cm, making it perfect for underplanting shrubs, edging paths, or filling gaps in perennial borders.

 

Seed Qty: Approx. 1000

 

Sow: February - April (indoors) or May - July (outdoors)

Germination: 14 - 21 days

Soil: Well-drained soil; neutral to slightly alkaline pH

Height: 60 - 90 cm

Flowering: June - August

Companion Plants: Campanula, Hellebores, Ferns

Avoid Planting With: Competitive groundcovers

 

Low-maintenance and resilient, Foxglove Lutea requires minimal care. Deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering, and cut back the plant in autumn to prepare for fresh spring growth. Caution is advised, as all parts of this plant are toxic if ingested.

 

Sowing Instructions

Indoors: Sow seeds in trays or pots filled with moist, well-drained compost from February to April. Lightly press seeds onto the surface without covering, as light aids germination. Maintain a temperature of 15-18°C. Transplant seedlings into individual pots once large enough to handle, and harden off before planting outdoors after the last frost.

 

Outdoors: Sow directly into prepared soil from May to July. Scatter seeds thinly on the surface and press gently to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. Keep moist until germination occurs. Thin seedlings to a spacing of 15 - 20 cm for best growth.

 

A graceful addition to cottage gardens, woodland settings, or informal borders, Foxglove Lutea offers understated beauty and pollinator appeal. Its versatility and charm make it a must-have for gardeners seeking reliable, long-lasting blooms.

 

RHS Seed Scheme Range