Foxglove
NameFoxglove
Scientific NameDigitalis purpurea
Common NamesFoxglove, Common Foxglove, Purple Foxglove, Lady's Glove, Fairy Thimbles
Plant FamilyPlantaginaceae
Natural HabitatNative to Europe, it thrives in woodlands, forest clearings, hedgerows, and disturbed ground, preferring acidic to neutral, well-drained soils and partial shade.
Parts Usedleaf
Medicinal Actionsdiuretic
Traditional UsesHistorically, foxglove leaves were used to treat dropsy (edema) and congestive heart failure, primarily due to their potent cardiotonic effects. Its use was famously documented by William Withering in the 18th century, though its extreme toxicity meant a narrow therapeutic window and high risk of poisoning.
Active ConstituentsDigitoxin, Digoxin, Cardiac glycosides
Preparation Methodspowder,tincture
Contraindications & WarningsAll parts of the foxglove plant are highly poisonous and can be fatal if ingested. It is not suitable for self-medication. Symptoms of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, blurred vision, headaches, and severe cardiac arrhythmias. It interacts dangerously with many medications, including diuretics, calcium channel blockers, and beta-blockers.
Cultivation NotesFoxglove is a biennial plant that forms a leafy rosette in its first year and flowers in its second. It prefers partial shade to full sun and well-drained, acidic to neutral soil. It readily self-seeds and can naturalize in suitable conditions.
Raritycommon
Description
A tall biennial plant characterized by a basal rosette of large, downy leaves and a striking flower stalk bearing numerous bell-shaped, purple (or sometimes white/pink) flowers, often speckled inside. It typically grows 2-5 feet tall.
