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Foxgloves are a favorite among gardeners and pollinators alike. Their tall spikes of tubular flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making them an excellent addition to any pollinator-friendly garden. Choosing the right varieties can maximize your garden’s appeal to these beneficial insects.
Why Choose Foxgloves for Pollinators?
Foxgloves (Digitalis spp.) are native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. They produce nectar-rich flowers that are especially attractive to pollinators. Their tubular shape is perfect for bees and hummingbirds, which can access the nectar deep inside the blossoms. Additionally, foxgloves are biennials or perennials, providing long-lasting color and pollinator support.
Top Foxglove Varieties for Pollinator Attraction
- Digitalis purpurea (Common Foxglove)
This classic variety features tall spikes of purple, pink, or white flowers. It is widely cultivated and highly attractive to bees and hummingbirds. - Digitalis grandiflora (Large-Flowered Foxglove)
Known for its large, bright yellow flowers, this variety is a magnet for pollinators seeking nectar. - Digitalis lutea (Golden Foxglove)
With its pale yellow, bell-shaped flowers, it appeals to a variety of pollinators and thrives in woodland gardens. - Digitalis ferruginea (Rusty Foxglove)
Features orange-brown flowers with a rusty hue, attracting bees and butterflies. - Digitalis x mertonensis (Mertonensis Foxglove)
A hybrid with vibrant coral-pink flowers, excellent for attracting pollinators in mixed borders.
Growing Tips for Pollinator-Friendly Foxgloves
To attract pollinators effectively, plant foxgloves in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Allow the plants to grow tall and provide continuous blooms by deadheading spent flowers. Incorporate a variety of foxglove species and colors to extend the flowering period and attract a diverse range of pollinators.
Additional Tips
- Plant in groups for visual impact and easy access for pollinators.
- Combine foxgloves with other nectar-rich plants like bee balm, coneflowers, and milkweed.
- Avoid using pesticides that can harm pollinators.
- Provide shelter and water sources nearby to support pollinator health.
By selecting the right foxglove varieties and providing optimal growing conditions, you can create a vibrant, pollinator-friendly garden that benefits both your plants and local wildlife.