Digitalis purpurea
A striking biennial (sometimes short‑lived perennial) with tall spires of purple, pink, or purple-white bells that light up woodland edges and shady borders in early summer. Looks lovely paired with wood sorrel or bugle in a cool, lightly shaded patch.
🌿 Size: 2–5 feet tall
🌿 Spreading habit: Readily self‑seeds; forms natural drifts if allowed
🌿 Sun needs: Partial shade, Full shade
🌿 Pet & Child friendliness: Unsafe* (all parts are highly toxic if eaten)
🌿 Pollen Level: Medium*
Care: Prefers moist, Loamy soil and thrives in woodland gardens, north‑facing beds, and dappled shade, but can survive just about anywhere if kept moist. Water during its first year and in prolonged dry spells. To control spread, remove seedheads before they ripen or leave a few to naturalise. Cut back spent flower spikes to encourage tidy rosettes the following year.
Fun Fact: Foxglove contains natural compounds that inspired modern heart medications - though the plant itself should never be consumed.
*Individual sensitivities may vary. Please see our FAQ for more details.