Color:

Foxglove

Digitalis purpurea

Biennial

Popular

Figwort Family

Tall spikes of tubular, spotted flowers. Cottage garden classic. Highly toxic but beautiful. Flowers open from bottom up. Woodland and fairy garden associations. Source of heart medicine digitalis.

Bloom Season

Spring, Summer

Habitat

Temperate

Where to Buy

Find local florists carrying Foxglove

Where are you located?

Enter your location to see nearby florists

Perfect For

Wedding

Care & Vase Life

Stays fresh for 5 to 8 days

when properly cared for

TOXIC: Handle with care and wash hands thoroughly after

Cut when bottom flowers are just opening

Flowers open sequentially up the spike

Keep away from children and pets

TOXIC - handle with care, wash hands

Cut when bottom flowers open

Change water every 2-3 days

Flowers open sequentially up spike

Fragrance Profile

No Scent

Foxglove has no fragrance

Safety Information

Toxic to Cats

Toxic to Dogs

Toxic to Humans

HIGHLY TOXIC - all parts contain cardiac glycosides (digitalis). Can cause nausea, vomiting, heart arrhythmias, and can be fatal. Wash hands after handling. Seek immediate medical attention if ingested.

Fun Facts

Source of the heart medicine digitalis, still used today

The name may come from "folk's glove" (fairy folk) or the shape fitting a finger

William Withering discovered its medical use in 1785 from folk healers

Bees must crawl deep inside the spotted "gloves" to reach nectar

Origin & History

Native to Europe

Foxglove is native to western Europe. Despite its toxicity, folk healers used it for centuries. In 1785, physician William Withering documented its use for heart conditions. Digitalis, derived from foxglove, revolutionized cardiac medicine and is still used today to treat heart failure and arrhythmias.