SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Starting Indoors:
Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before planting out after last frost. Keep at 70-75°F. Retain moisture by covering with a light sprinkling of vermiculite or a humidity dome until germination occurs.
Starting Outdoors:
Sow in place after last frost in warm summer areas.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
Hailing from South Africa, African Foxglove is a tender annual, meaning it should be set out after the soil has warmed above 50°F and all danger of frost has passed.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
The botanical name of African foxglove refers to the horned seed capsules that develop along the stem; kerato means' horned', and theke refers to 'a case'. Tall and elegant, it has foxglove-shaped flowers in lavender with purple striations inside that bloom in succession along the sturdy stems. It is deer resistant and well-suited for large drifts at the edge of woodlands or in the back border with tall cosmos. Soft hairs cover the foliage and stems, which release a peanut butter scent when bruised.
Watering Details:
Somewhat drought tolerant, but performs best with about 1" of water per week.
Soil pH:
Slightly acidic to neutral
Fertilizer:
Mix in a couple of inches of compost or an all-purpose granular, organic fertilizer in springtime.
Diseases & Pests:
Thrips can occasionally be troublesome. Treat with neem or other organic insecticide.
