foxgloves

Foxgloves are flowering plants in the genus Digitalis, belonging to the family Plantaginaceae. They are known for tall spikes of tubular flowers that hang downward and often come in shades of purple, pink, white, or yellow. Many species have spotted throats inside the blossoms. The flowers typically appear in midsummer to early autumn, attracting bees and other pollinators.

Commonly, Digitalis purpurea, the common foxglove, is a tall biennial or short-lived perennial native to woodlands, hedgerows, and banks across Europe and western Asia. Other species include Digitalis grandiflora (showy foxglove) with pale yellow flowers and Digitalis lutea (yellow foxglove). Foxgloves can self-seed in suitable conditions and vary in size and color among species and cultivars.

Distribution and habitat: Foxgloves are widespread in temperate regions, especially Europe and western Asia, and have been naturalized in many other temperate areas. They prefer well-drained, fertile soil and can tolerate partial shade, often thriving in woodland edges and garden borders.

Toxicity and safety: All parts of foxglove plants contain cardiac glycosides, which can cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, arrhythmias, and potentially death if ingested. Handling the sap can irritate the skin, so gloves are advised when pruning. They should be kept away from children and pets.

Uses: The cardiac glycosides isolated from foxglove have long been used in medicine to treat heart failure and certain arrhythmias, with purified compounds such as digoxin and digitoxin still in clinical use today.

Cultivation notes: Foxgloves grow best in fertile, well-drained soil with consistent moisture. They are often grown as ornamental garden plants, and their tall floral spikes may require staking. They may decline after flowering, as they are typically short-lived perennials or biennials.