Troubleshooting
Rusty Foxglove problems — and how to fix them
Rusty Foxglove (Digitalis ferruginea) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Short-lived
Tends to flower spectacularly then decline after a year or two. Allow some spikes to set seed so a self-renewing colony establishes.
Crown rot in wet, heavy soil
Winter wet rots the evergreen rosette. Plant on free-draining ground, add grit on clay, and avoid mulching directly over the crown.
Tall spikes in wind
The very tall, slender spires can lean in exposed sites. Position with some shelter; staking is usually unnecessary in sun-grown plants.
Aphids and leaf spot
Aphids on flower spikes and fungal spotting in damp conditions can occur. Hose off aphids and improve airflow to limit leaf disease.
Prevent rusty foxglove problems before they start
Most rusty foxglove issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for rusty foxglove in general rather than its problems? Read the full rusty foxglove care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Rusty Foxglove problems — FAQ
Why is my rusty foxglove short-lived?
Tends to flower spectacularly then decline after a year or two. Allow some spikes to set seed so a self-renewing colony establishes.
Why is my rusty foxglove crown rot in wet, heavy soil?
Winter wet rots the evergreen rosette. Plant on free-draining ground, add grit on clay, and avoid mulching directly over the crown.
Why is my rusty foxglove tall spikes in wind?
The very tall, slender spires can lean in exposed sites. Position with some shelter; staking is usually unnecessary in sun-grown plants.
Why is my rusty foxglove aphids and leaf spot?
Aphids on flower spikes and fungal spotting in damp conditions can occur. Hose off aphids and improve airflow to limit leaf disease.