I Do Hearts a World of Good

Perennial of the Week: Foxglove

Foxglove (Digitalis) is a true garden “thriller” that lends height, drama, and color under the midsummer sun.

For centuries, these plants have been known as the source of Digitalis, a medication used to control cardiac arrhythmias. William Withering is credited with discussing the benefits of Digitalis in English-language medical literature as early as 1785.

Foxglove is also great for the gardener’s heart. Digitalis adds elegance to any landscape, beginning with its broad, low-growing leaves, and culminating with the spire-like blooms that appear in white, yellow, pink, and purple. Foxglove flowers are attractively marked with spots or streaks.

These lovely plants easily re-seed and flourish in a wide range of locations, from sunny spots to partial sun. Some species grow readily in open woodlands and meadows. True perennial Foxglove, such as Digitalis mertonensis (Strawberry Foxglove), as well as biennial types such as Digitalis purpurea, are both worthy additions to the perennial garden. As mentioned above, the biennial forms come in an array of colors and easily self seed in the garden when undisturbed.

Due to the plant’s toxicity when ingested, it is deer, rabbit, and groundhog resistant.

Presently, we have a beautiful selection of the Dalmatian Series of Rohsler’s Grown Digitalis purpurea in an array of colors all in bud and bloom. Bring some Foxglove home to your garden today!

 

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