Foxglove is a stately flower with tall elegant spikes covered in bell-shape blossoms beloved by hummingbirds and bumblebees. They bloom heavily in early spring, need little care, are deer-resistant, and make stunning cut flowers. Learn when to plant foxglove and how to grow foxglove.
Common foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) is a biennial or short-lived herbaceous perennial in most regions, although there are hybrids that grow in flower in year one. In its first year, the plant simply forms a rosette and foliage; in the second year, the plant grows a 3 to 5 feet spike covered in 20 to 80 small downward-facing, tubular flowers in purple, pink, or white. Each one has a small lip on which bumblebees can land to access the nectar at the base of the tube. Hummingbirds may also visit the flowers.
The flower blooms from late spring through midsummer and then dies. Therefore, for continuous blooms, plant it for two consecutive years. Or, look for varieties that flower in Year 1. Be aware that foxglove also self-seeds prolifically. Deadhead after flowering to avoid excess numbers of seedlings.
They are great in tall borders or background plantings and also look attractive as against a background such as a building or fence.
Is Foxglove Poisonous?
Yes. Foxglove is poisonous, although recorded poisonings from this plant are very rare. The plant contains digitalis and other cardiac glycosides. These chemicals affect the heart. To be poisoned from foxglove, you would need to eat the seeds, stems, or leaves, or suck the flowers.
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