Foxglove
Digitalis purpurea · Plantaginaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant foxglove: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Blooming
- June to August
- Adult size
- 0.6 to 1.5 m in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Western and central Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained, rich in organic matter
Care
Watering
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during the growing season. Water regularly in summer, especially during dry spells. Reduce watering in winter. Avoid wetting the foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
Exposure
Place your purple foxglove in partial shade or full sun in temperate regions. Partial shade protects the plant during very hot summers and intensifies flower color. It tolerates shaded areas well but flowers best with good light.
Soil
Prefer rich, slightly acidic and well-drained soil. Enrich with compost or potting soil when planting. Avoid heavy and chalky soils, which can slow growth and promote root rot.
Pruning and deadheading
Remove dried flowers as they fade to extend the flowering period. Cut flower stems at the base after blooming to encourage a robust leaf rosette to form next year. In late fall, clean up dead leaves.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring when vegetation starts. An additional application before flowering stimulates flower production. Prefer potassium-rich fertilizer rather than nitrogen-heavy formulas to avoid excessive foliage at the expense of flowers.
Diseases and pests
Watch for powdery mildew and leaf spots during humid periods. Ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid stagnant moisture. Slugs and snails can damage young leaves early in the season. Apply plant-based sprays or use physical measures if infestation occurs.
Did you know?
Purple foxglove is famous for yielding digoxin and digitoxin, two cardiac glycosides used in cardiology. These compounds were discovered in the 18th century when an English physician observed that leaf infusions regulated heartbeats. However, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested—handle with care and never exceed prescribed medical uses.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.