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Digitalis purpurea
common foxglove
Western and southern Europe; naturalized in North America, New Zealand, and AustraliaLearn more
Overview
A biennial or short-lived perennial in the family Plantaginaceae, native to western Europe and naturalized widely across temperate regions of the world. In the first year, plants produce a flat basal rosette of large, soft, ovate leaves 4–12 inches (10–30 cm) long, covered in fine gray-white hairs on the undersides. In the second year, erect flower spikes rise 3–6 feet (90–180 cm) bearing one-sided racemes of pendulous, tubular flowers 1.5–2.5 inches (4–6 cm) long in purple, pink, rose, lavender, white, or cream, the interior typically spotted with contrasting dark purple or maroon markings. Flowers open from the base to the tip over 4–6 weeks. After flowering, plants typically set abundant seed and die. Self-seeding is prolific in disturbed, moist soils, and naturalized populations persist indefinitely. All parts are highly toxic; foxglove is the source of digitalis, a cardiac glycoside used medicinally. The species has naturalized in the Pacific Northwest of North America, where it colonizes roadsides and disturbed ground.
Native Range
Native to western and southern Europe, from Scandinavia south through the British Isles, France, Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, and east to central Europe, growing in woodland clearings, heathland, roadsides, and disturbed ground. Naturalized across much of temperate North America, New Zealand, and Australia.Suggested Uses
Planted in woodland gardens, cottage gardens, and naturalized settings at 18–24 inch (45–60 cm) spacing. Best in informal, naturalistic plantings where self-seeding can be permitted. Pairs well with ferns, hostas, and other shade-tolerant plants. The tall spikes provide strong vertical accent in June borders. Not suited to formal or low-maintenance plantings due to the biennial habit.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height3' - 6'
Width/Spread1'6" - 2'
Bloom Information
Blooms May through July in the second year from seed (or first year from transplants started early). Flower spikes open from the base upward over 4–6 weeks, with the full spike in flower for 2–3 weeks. Plants set seed abundantly after bloom and typically die; seedlings germinate in late summer or fall and overwinter as rosettes to bloom the following year.Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
purple, pink, white, cream with spotted interiorsFoliage Description
gray-green, soft and hairyGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 2-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Start seed indoors 10–12 weeks before last frost, or sow outdoors in summer for bloom the following year. Transplant into partial shade to full sun in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5–6.5. Water regularly — plants decline quickly in dry conditions. To maintain a colony, allow plants to self-seed; collect seed when capsules begin to split if saving for specific areas. Plants do not require fertilization in fertile soil. Handle with gloves — all parts are highly toxic; avoid contact with eyes or mouth.Pruning
Do not deadhead if self-seeding for a naturalized colony. If controlling spread, cut the main spike before seed capsules open. After the main spike finishes, side shoots sometimes produce smaller secondary spikes — leave these for additional bloom. Cut the entire plant to the ground after it sets seed and begins to decline; compost debris away from the garden if controlling spread.Pruning Schedule
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summer