Carillon Foxglove

Carillon Foxglove (Digitalis grandiflora ‘Carillon’)

Carillon Foxglove (Digitalis grandiflora ‘Carillon’) is a compact, long lived yellow foxglove selected for abundant spires of soft primrose yellow bells on well branched stems. Shorter and tidier than the species, it forms a neat clump of deep green, semi evergreen foliage and flowers from early to midsummer, adding refined vertical accent and gentle color to borders, woodland edges, and cottage plantings in sunny to lightly shaded, well drained sites.

Distinctive Features

Graceful wands carry closely spaced, outward facing tubular flowers with lightly dotted throats for a delicate, shimmering effect; the compact habit and strong branching deliver a fuller display at a lower height, ideal for front or mid border placements.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; provide afternoon shade in hot climates.
• Soil: Well drained, moderately fertile soil; tolerates sandy or gravelly sites.
• Water: Moderate; keep evenly moist to establish, then water deeply but infrequently.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 8.
• Mature Size: About 18 to 24 inches tall and 12 to 18 inches wide.
• Bloom Time: Early to midsummer, with side shoot rebloom if deadheaded.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Slender yellow spires add vertical structure without overpowering small beds.
• Woodland and Dry Shade: Performs well in bright shade with sharp drainage.
• Cottage Borders: Blends easily with roses, salvia, nepeta, and hardy geraniums.
• Naturalistic Plantings: Soft color and fine texture suit meadows and edge habitats.
• Cut Flowers: Tall stems with neat bells bring airy elegance to arrangements.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Maintain even moisture in spring; reduce frequency once established.
• Deadheading: Remove spent spikes to encourage side shoots and prolong bloom.
• Fertilizing: Top dress with compost in spring; avoid heavy nitrogen.
• Staking: Seldom needed; stake only in very windy exposures.
• Safety: All parts are toxic if ingested; site away from pets and children.

Why Choose Carillon Foxglove?

• Compact Habit: Lower, fuller spires fit the front or mid border.
• Elegant Pale Yellow: Subtle color that harmonizes with both pastels and bold schemes.
• Reliable Perennial: Longer lived than many foxgloves with steady performance.
• Pollinator Friendly: Nectar rich bells attract bees and hummingbirds.
• Low Fuss: Durable, drought tolerant once established, and easy to maintain.

Digitalis grandiflora ‘Carillon’ delivers graceful spires, soft yellow bloom, and a compact, enduring habit for season spanning interest in well drained, sunny to lightly shaded gardens.