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Foxglove
Plantaginaceae Herb Outdoor Placement

Foxglove

Digitalis purpurea

Identified By Marcs

Digitalis purpurea, commonly known as foxglove, is a striking biennial or short-lived perennial plant renowned for its magnificent, tall spikes of tubular, bell-shaped flowers marked with distinctive spots inside. Native to temperate Europe, western Asia, and northwestern Africa, it naturally populates open woodland areas, clearings, and moorlands. Although widely cultivated as a dramatic ornamental feature in cottage gardens and shaded borders, every single part of the plant contains potent cardiac glycosides. These powerful chemical compounds have historically served as the foundational source for crucial heart medications, yet they render the entire plant extremely toxic when ingested by humans and domestic animals alike.

Also known as: Common Foxglove Purple Foxglove Dead Man's Bells Witches' Gloves

Safety Warnings

Toxic to Pets: Foxglove is severely toxic to household pets, including dogs, cats, and horses. The plant contains highly active cardiac glycosides such as digitoxin and digoxin, which directly disrupt normal cardiac function. Ingestion of any part of the plant—leaves, stems, flowers, or seeds—can lead to immediate poisoning symptoms. Clinical signs of toxicity in animals include severe vomiting, diarrhea, cardiac arrhythmias, tremors, extreme weakness, collapse, and potentially fatal heart failure. Immediate veterinary intervention is critically required if ingestion is suspected.
Toxic to Humans: Foxglove is intensely toxic to humans due to the presence of potent cardiac glycosides. Ingestion of leaves, flowers, or roots can cause serious systemic poisoning. Initial symptoms of digitalis toxicity typically manifest as severe nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and severe headache. As the toxins affect the cardiovascular system, victims may experience dangerously slow or irregular heartbeats, blurred vision, yellowish vision halos, confusion, hallucinations, and ultimately cardiovascular collapse or death. No part of the plant should ever be consumed outside of strictly controlled pharmaceutical derivatives.
Pregnancy Risk: Foxglove is exceptionally dangerous during pregnancy due to its potent bioactive compounds that readily cross biological barriers. The cardiac glycosides present in the plant can induce strong uterine contractions, presenting a severe risk of miscarriage or premature labor. Furthermore, the cardiovascular toxicity can severely compromise maternal and fetal health simultaneously, altering heart rhythms and blood pressure. Pregnant and breastfeeding women must completely avoid handling or consuming any preparations derived from this toxic botanical species.

Growth & Dimensions

Height 60 - 180 cm
Width 30 - 60 cm
Growth Rate Moderate
Care Level Easy
Lifespan Biennial

Ideal Environment

Temperature -15°C - 25°C
Sunlight Hours 4 - 8 hrs/day
Sun Exposure Partial shade
Soil pH 5.5 - 7
Watering Interval 5 - 10 days
Humidity 40.00% - 80.00%
USDA Zone 4 - 9

Temperate Woodland Margins

Climate: Cool to moderate temperate climates with reliable moisture and partial canopy shade.

Soils: Loam Humus-rich soil Sandy loam
Annual Rainfall: 700 - 1400 mm

Native Regions

Western Asia
Western Europe
Northwestern Africa

Care Guide

Watering Requirements

Water plants consistently during dry spells to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid waterlogging, as foxgloves dislike sitting in stagnant water.

Sunlight and Placement

Plant in partial shade, especially in warmer climates, though they can tolerate full sun if the soil remains consistently moist.

Soil and Fertilization

Grow in rich, well-draining soil with an acidic to neutral pH. Apply a layer of organic compost around the base in spring.

Pruning and Maintenance

Cut back spent flower spikes after blooming to encourage a second, smaller flush of flowers or to prevent unwanted self-seeding.

Propagation Methods

Seed

Sow tiny seeds directly onto the soil surface in spring or late summer, pressing them lightly into the dirt as they require light to germinate.

Common Diseases & Pests

Powdery Mildew

Fungal
Symptoms:

White or gray powdery spots appearing on leaves and stems, leading to distorted foliage and leaf drop.

Treatment:

Apply sulfur-based fungicides or neem oil, and improve air circulation around the plants.

Prevention:

Ensure adequate spacing between plants and avoid overhead watering.

Leaf Spot

Fungal
Symptoms:

Dark brown or black spots with yellowish halos forming on the leaf surfaces.

Treatment:

Remove and destroy infected leaves immediately and apply an appropriate copper fungicide.

Prevention:

Keep foliage dry and clear away old plant debris at the end of the growing season.

Properties & Benefits

Bears Fruit

Uses & Health Benefits

Cardiovascular Medication Source

Extracts from the plant yield powerful cardiac glycosides used in modern medicine to treat congestive heart failure and heart arrhythmias.

Precautions: Extremely toxic; absolutely no self-medication or herbal use is safe.

Key Nutrients / Compounds

Cardiac Glycosides rich in Varies significantly by plant tissue

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