Digitalis ferruginea - Rusty Foxglove

Sizes available: #1 (Trade gallon)

Basics: zones 4-8, 36-60" x 12-18", full sun to part shade, Tall, narrow spires of light rusty, but also creamy, orange flowers (some say pale golden or russet) in late spring to early summer, likes moist, nutritious, well-drained soils on the acid side, and the moisture is especially important in full sun positions. 

Common names: Rusty Foxglove

Family: Plantaginaceae

Origin/Distribution: native to Hungary, Romania, Turkey, the Caucasus, Lebanon

Habitat: rocky slopes, scrubland, open woodland and grassland

More: This is a short-lived perennial that may behave as a biennial so leave some flower heads to develop seeds and cut others (which encourages perennialization) in order to keep your patch going. Hummingbirds are attracted to this plant. It makes a great cut flower and is deer resistant. All Digitalis species contain cardiac glycosides which can be toxic (as well as helpful when used properly) to humans and animals. This plant has received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

Source: Van Berkum

Image credits: Van Berkum Nursery: This is a hyper close-up. The form is a tapered, slender spire.