Foxglove
Digitalis purpurea
Growing from hairy-leaved rosettes, the tall spires of foxglove are unmistakable in the garden. With drooping, bell-shape flowers, heavily freckled inside, it's easy to see how they got the common name of fairy thimbles. It self-seeds and looks right at home in cottage, cutting, woodland, and naturalized gardens, adding vertical dimension to perennial beds. First year blooming varieties are available (especially useful for cutting gardens). Days to maturity for 1st year bloomers is 120-135 days. ***All parts of this plant are poisonous, including the seeds. Exercise caution around children and pets.***
How to Grow Foxglove
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Growing from Seed
Do not cover seeds or cover lightly with vermiculite. Transplant to large cell packs or containers after first true leaves appear, 15-20 days after emergence. Direct seeding is not recommended.
Planting Considerations
Most foxglove plants are biennial; plan on planting two years consecutively for yearly blooms. Foxglove prefers afternoon shade in moist, highly organic soil.
Harvesting
Pick stems when 1/3 of buds are open.
Pruning
Cut back stems after flowering to control reseeding.
