Common name:
South African foxglove

Origin:
South Africa

Minimum temperature:
0 degrees Celsius

Description:
This annual plant with pink flowers originate from the plains of South Africa. The flowers are around 5 cm long, have elegant purple lines on the outer rim and are quite similar to the normal foxglove.
Depending on the temperature and amount of water available the plant produces one or more stems which can reach an height of 1.5 to 2 meters, because of this a sheltered, sunny spot with plenty of water for the plant is advised. Bees and bumblebees pollinate the flowers, after which brown fruits with seeds are produced. These seeds can be used to sow the plant in the next year.
In South Africa the plant is traditionally used as a medicine against menstruation pain, fever and problems with the digestive system.

Sowing description:
Sow the seeds in sowing mix and cover with just a slim layer of soil. Germination at 20-25 degrees in a spot with a lot of light, but no direct sunlight. After 1-2 months the germinated plants can be transferred to the garden.

Sowing time:
February - May

Difficulty:
Easy