Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) Lus mór

Appearance:
Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) is a tall, biennial plant with clusters of tubular, bell-shaped flowers that range from purple to pink, white, and yellow, often spotted inside. The leaves are large, lance-shaped, and grow in a rosette at the base.

Growth Habit:
It forms a rosette of leaves in the first year and sends up a tall flowering spike, reaching 1-2 meters (3-6 feet) in height, during the second year.

Cultivation:
Easily grown from seeds sown in late spring. It self-seeds readily, allowing it to return each year.

Soil:
Prefers rich, moist, well-drained soil. It can adapt to various soil types but thrives in loamy, slightly acidic soils.

Sunlight:
Grows best in partial shade but can tolerate full sun if the soil remains moist.

Watering:
Needs regular watering, especially during dry periods. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.

Uses:
Best known as the source of digitalis, a heart medication. Historically, it was used to treat heart conditions, but due to its toxicity, use is now limited to pharmaceutical extraction.

Dyeing:
Not used for dyeing.

Ornamental:
Popular in gardens for its striking, tall flower spikes. It adds height and color to borders, woodland gardens, and cottage-style plantings.

Medicinal:
Contains potent cardiac glycosides (digitalin and digitoxin), used under strict medical supervision to treat heart conditions. Extremely toxic if ingested without proper dosing.

Maintenance:
Moderate maintenance. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms and control self-seeding if necessary. Wear gloves when handling, as all parts of the plant are toxic.