Foxglove

Foxglove bears tall, dramatic spikes of tubular flowers with speckled throats in midsummer, adding elegance to borders, woodlands, or shade gardens.

About This Plant

Low foliage topped by 2–5 foot spikes. Colors: pink, red, purple, white, yellow. Biennials or short-lived perennials, but self-sow readily. Leaves contain digitalis (heart medicine)—poisonous if ingested.

Special Features

• Easy care / low maintenance
• Multiplies readily
• Good for cut flowers
• Deer resistant

Site Selection

Full sun to light shade; moist, well-drained soil.

Planting Instructions

Spring or fall, space 1–2 feet. Sow seeds early summer. Loosen soil 12–15 inches, add 2–4 inches compost. Plant at container depth, water thoroughly.

Care

Spring: thin compost + 2-inch mulch. Water if rainfall <1 inch/week. Stake tall varieties. Remove central spike after flowering to encourage side shoots and more blooms. To allow self-sowing, leave spike intact for seed maturation.