Digitalis lanata aka Woolly Digitalis
Taxonomy
Digitalis lanata, commonly known as woolly foxglove or Grecian foxglove, is a rare houseplant belonging to the plantain family, Plantaginaceae. This erect perennial forms a rosette of lance-shaped, evergreen leaves covered in a woolly indumentum. The cream or pale yellow flowers, measuring 2.5cm in length, are veined with brown and arranged in a long spike during the summer. Grecian foxglove thrives when regularly watered and placed in direct, long-lasting light, preferably within one foot of a window. It requires well-draining soil and does not typically require additional fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size. Despite its beauty, it is important to note that all parts of the plant are toxic, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, severe headache, dilated pupils, problems with eyesight, and convulsions in cases of high toxicity. It is also harmful to other animals.
Common names
Woolly Digitalis, Grecian Foxglove, DigitalisHow to care for Woolly Digitalis
Water
Woolly Digitalis should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Woolly Digitalis loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Woolly Digitalis prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.
Fertilizer
The Woolly Digitalis should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Region of origin
Woolly Digitalis’s native range is E. Europe.
More info:
Wikipedia
