Foxglove

Foxglove (genus Digitalis) is a group of about 20 species of herbaceous plants native to Europe, the Mediterranean region, and the Canary Islands. It is cultivated for its attractive flower spikes and is known for its poisonous cardiac glycosides found in all parts of the plant. These glycosides are toxic if ingested and are used in the heart-stimulating drug digitalis, obtained from the dried leaves . The plant typically grows to a height of 45 to 150 cm (18 to 60 inches) and produces alternating, ovate to oblong leaves toward the lower part of the stem, capped by a tall flowering spike. The flowers are tubular, bell-shaped, and vary in color from white to lavender and purple, with some species also producing pink and red blossoms. The flowers are about 2 inches long and are known for their striking appearance . Foxglove prefers full sun with light afternoon shade and moist, well-drained soil high in organic matter. It is a biennial or short-lived herbaceous perennial, with some hybrids flowering in the first year. The plant is hardy in zones 4-9 and is often grown in tall borders, background plantings, and as cut flowers .