How Digitalis Has Been Hybridised And Improved.
Question
Please could you tell me how digitalis has been hybridised and improved over the years?
Answer
Digitalis or common foxglove:
The original species D. purpurea (purple) has been around for a long time in fact there are references to it back in the 13th century.Although it is a British native plant,it also grows throughout Europe.There was also another species growing in Europe which was D.lanata. which tended to be smaller with slightly different leaves and more variation in colour.
The ancient apothecaries and herbalists were very interested in the medicinal properties of Digitalis so they began to cultivate it which has led to selection and development of better forms through the ages.The majority of changes would have been brought about more often than not by genetic mutation and the production of “sports” rather than planned
breeding,as foxgloves produce prodigious amounts of seed easily.In fact this is still happening today.The latest one being D.purpurea “Pam’s Choice” which is now in commercial production having been found growing a couple of years ago in someone’s garden.For More information
click here
Gardening courses for beginners - new to gardening a GardenAdvice course is an ideal place to start
GardenAdvice One-Day Gardening Courses
GardenAdvice one-day gardening courses are specially created for gardeners with a range of skills, from beginners to expert gardeners. Our courses take place in your own garden, anywhere in the UK, led by GardenAdvice expert gardeners on a date that suits you – a perfect gardening gift for the gardener in your life.
Become a more confident gardener with the GardenAdvice Gardening Course.
Whether you're new to gardening or have some experience, it can seem a bit complicated at first with all the Latin names and gardening terminology. GardenAdvice.co.uk has developed a specially designed, one-day course to teach you the basic skills of gardening and help you get started.
The courses, held in your own garden, cover essential skills such as pruning, correct digging methods, growing your own shrubs, and creating the perfect lawn. You can also see some of our clients from the gardening courses and our MyGardenTeam service in the client section of the GardenAdvice website.
For more information, visit our gardening courses section or email us at admin@gardenadvice.co.uk. Alternatively, you can phone us on 01225 941023.
