Digitalis purpurea Alba

Graceful, ethereal, and undeniably striking, Digitalis purpurea ‘Alba’ brings an air of quiet elegance to the garden. Unlike the traditional purple foxgloves, this pure white form rises with tall, stately spires clothed in luminous, bell-shaped blooms that shimmer against lush green foliage. Each flower is delicately speckled within, offering intricate detail that draws in bees and pollinators in abundance, making it as valuable to wildlife as it is to the gardener’s eye. Perfect for adding height and vertical structure, it thrives in partial shade or dappled woodland settings, yet is equally captivating in cottage-style borders where its cool, serene tones create contrast and balance against more vibrant companions. A biennial by nature, it self-seeds freely to ensure future displays, often popping up with delightful spontaneity. Digitalis purpurea ‘Alba’ is more than just a plant – it is a statement of refinement, bringing both beauty and life to every corner it graces.

Planting Instructions

Digitalis purpurea ‘Alba’ is a stately foxglove variety with tall, elegant spires of pure white, bell-shaped flowers dotted with pale speckles inside. A striking plant for cottage gardens, woodland-style borders, and wildlife-friendly schemes — loved by bees.

When to Plant:
Plant young plants in spring or early autumn. If sowing seed, sow indoors in late winter to spring, or directly outdoors in late spring to early summer.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny or partially shaded site in fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Perfect for mixed borders, woodland edges, and naturalised planting.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant so the crown is level with the soil surface.
• Spacing: 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) apart to allow room for flower spikes.
• Tip: Water well after planting to help roots establish.

Aftercare:
Water regularly in dry spells during the first season. Remove faded flower spikes to encourage further blooms, or leave a few to self-seed naturally. Cut back old stems in late autumn and tidy foliage as needed.

Top Tip:
Plant in groups of three or more for a dramatic vertical effect — their white spires look stunning against darker planting or as a contrast to colourful cottage perennials.

⚠️ Note: All parts of Digitalis are toxic if ingested and can irritate skin — handle with care.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

Early summer to midsummer

Height:

23-35” (60-90cm)

Hardy biennial/perennial in the UK