Digitalis purpurea L.
Common Foxglove
Foxglove is a tall, stately biennial native to Britain and much of temperate Europe. In its first year it forms a rosette of soft, downy, grey-green leaves; in the second it sends up a striking flower spike hung with rows of large, tubular blooms in shades of pinkish-purple, sometimes white, their throats spotted within.
About
Foxglove is a tall, stately biennial native to Britain and much of temperate Europe. In its first year it forms a rosette of soft, downy, grey-green leaves; in the second it sends up a striking flower spike hung with rows of large, tubular blooms in shades of pinkish-purple, sometimes white, their throats spotted within. Flowering comes in early to mid summer, after which the plant sets copious seed and usually dies, readily renewing itself nearby.
It favours light, slightly acidic soils and is typical of woodland clearings, hedge banks, heaths and disturbed ground, doing well in dappled shade or sun. The pendent flowers are perfectly shaped for bumblebees, which are its main pollinators. All parts are toxic if eaten, and the plant is the original source of the heart drug digoxin. A classic for woodland-edge plantings, shady borders and wilder gardens, it brings welcome height and structure.
Also known as
Digitalis · Fairy Cap · Foxglove · Purple Foxglove
Synonyms
Digitalis purpurea alba · Digitalis purpurea gloxiniiflora · Digitalis purpurea toletana
In our seed mixes
Beta — under active development. This catalogue is still being built and accuracy-checked. The information here (including plant identifications, British native status, soil and sun/shade preferences) is provided in good faith for general guidance only and may contain errors or omissions. It must not be relied upon on its own — please confirm details with us before making planting, specification, foraging or purchasing decisions, and never eat or medicinally use any plant based on this catalogue alone, as some species are toxic. To the extent permitted by law, Phoenix Amenity Supplies accepts no liability for any loss arising from use of this information.