Digitalis purpurea aka Foxglove
Taxonomy
Digitalis purpurea, commonly known as the foxglove, is a species of flowering plant that is native to most of temperate Europe and has also naturalized in parts of North America and other temperate regions. This eye-catching plant can be a popular addition to gardens, with many cultivars available. However, it is important to note that foxgloves are among the most poisonous plants commonly grown in home landscapes, and should not be grown if small children or pets will be spending time in the area.
Foxgloves are tall, slender plants with tubular blooms that range in color from purple to white. They are often freckled and form on a spike, with nodding flowers. Foxglove is a biennial plant that grows as a rosette of leaves in the first year after sowing, before flowering and then dying in the second year. However, it generally produces enough seeds for new plants to continue growing in a garden setting.
The Digitalis genus includes about 20 species of herbaceous perennials, shrubs, and biennials commonly called foxgloves. The plant is the original source of the heart medicine digoxin (also called digitalis or digitalin). Foxglove prefers moist, well-drained soil high in organic matter and does best with afternoon shade. It is important to note that foxgloves are toxic and should not be ingested.
Common names
Foxglove, Digitalis, Purple Foxglove, Common Foxglove, Lady's GloveHow to care for Foxglove
Difficulty
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Foxglove, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
Water
Foxglove should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Foxglove loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Foxglove prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it is common for Foxglove plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.
Fertilizer
The Foxglove should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
The Foxglove is characterized by clumping growth, with new shoots emerging from the soil around the primary plant.
Region of origin
Foxglove’s native range is Western Europe, including Britain, from Norway to Spain and Sardinia.
More info:
Wikipedia
