The Foxglove flower (Digitalis purpurea) is a dramatic biennial. Produces towering 2'-3' spires of bell-shaped blossoms in shades of pink, purple, and white, often with contrasting speckles. Grows 3'-5' tall on sturdy stems with lance-shaped foliage. Perfect for a cottage garden.

Compounds found in the leaves are used to make the heart drug Digoxin, but the entire plant is poisonous and should not be ingested.

• Life cycle: Biennial
• Bloom season: Spring, summer
• Attracts: Birds, hummingbirds, bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
• Flower meaning: Ambition, creativity, energy, insincerity, intuition, pride

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Digitalis purpurea
• Hardiness zones: 4-9
• Planting season: Spring, summer, fall
• Days to maturity: 2nd year
• Cold stratify: Yes
• Depth to plant seeds: Lightly cover - seeds need light to germinate
• Spacing between plants:18"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 20-30 days
• Germination soil temps: 65F-70F
• Soil types: Loamy, rich, well-drained
• Soil pH: 5.5-6.5
• Water needs: Average
• Sun needs: Full sun, part shade
• Frost tolerant: Yes
• Drought tolerant: No
• Deer resistant: Yes