South African Foxglove, Wild Foxglove (Ceratotheca triloba)

South African foxglove (Ceratotheca triloba), also called wild foxglove, is an annual or short-lived perennial in the Pedaliaceae family. Native to southern Africa, it's grown for its tall spikes of tubular, foxglove-like flowers in shades of pink, lilac, and white.

Description

Grows 3–5 feet tall with a branching, bushy habit. Leaves are ovate, toothed, slightly sticky. Flowers are 1–1.5 inches long, borne in loose, terminal racemes. Colors range from pale pink to deep lilac, often with darker throats. Blooms from mid-summer to frost. Attracts bees and butterflies.

Growing Conditions

• Zones: Grown as annual in most zones; perennial in 9–11.
• Light: Full sun to part shade.
• Soil: Well-drained, average to fertile.
• Water: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established.
• Temperature: Heat-tolerant; prefers warm summers.

Care & Maintenance

Direct-sow after last frost or start indoors 6–8 weeks early. Thin to 12–18 inches apart. Deadhead to prolong bloom. Stake tall plants in windy sites. Self-seeds readily; may naturalize.

Uses

Cottage gardens, mixed borders, wildflower meadows, and cut flowers. Good for back of border height. Deer-resistant.

Potential Issues

Powdery mildew in humid conditions. Aphids on new growth. Generally pest-free.

A charming, airy annual that brings a touch of African veldt to summer gardens.