Foxglove Flower Seeds Mixed. 1000 Seeds.
Straight out of a storybook, this classic favorite adds a unique charm to cottage gardens. The vibrant flowers of Digitalis Purpurea are simple to cultivate and also draw in hummingbirds and butterflies.
Foxglove thrives as a wildflower in Great Britain and across Europe, with records tracing back to the era of Edward III of England. In the past, it was commonly known as "Folksglove," a nod to the little folk or fairies; these blooms often flourished in the deep dells and glades of the woods where fairies were believed to reside. One tale suggests that mischievous sprites would gift the fox these flowers to wear on his feet, helping him to tread quietly around the farmyards. Dr. William Withering first highlighted foxglove's significance to the medical community in 1785, outlining its use in a pivotal document that kickstarted the modern pharmacology movement. This plant produces digitoxin, a key ingredient in the heart-stimulating drug digitalis. The term Digitalis, which is also the genus name for the species, is derived from the Latin word for finger, reflecting the shape of the foxglove flower.
Common Names: Common Foxglove, Purple Foxglove, Finger Flower, Fairy Glove
Latin Name: Digitalis purpurea
Species Origin: Europe
Type: Garden Flowers
Life Cycle: Biennial, Perennial
USDA Zones: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
US Regions: California, Mountain, Arid/Desert, Plains/Texas, Midwest, Northern, Northeast, Southeast
Seeds per Ounce: 300,000
Stratification: No Stratification
Germination Ease: No Stratification
Sunlight: Part Sun, Shade
Plant Height: 24-40"
Plant Spacing: 18 - 24"
Color: Mixed, White, Cream, Pink, Purple
Bloom Season: Blooms Early Summer, Blooms Late Summer
Uses: Cut Flowers, Deer Resistant
*Keep in mind that they can be toxic if eaten.
Sowing: In spring, after the last frost, directly sow the fine Digitalis Purpurea seeds mixed with sand for even distribution. Lightly cover them by scattering some soil on top, and water gently to avoid disturbing the foxglove flower seeds. You should see germination within 3-4 weeks if the soil temperature is between 65-70 degrees F. Remember to thin or transplant the seedlings.
Growing: This plant thrives in light, moist soil and partial shade, but it can handle full sun as long as it has enough moisture. It likes consistently moist soil that drains well, as soggy conditions can lead to disease. Make sure to water it well during dry spells; adding a layer of mulch can help retain moisture. In its first year, foxglove seeds will grow into a low rosette of thick leaves, with the flowering stalk appearing in the second year. If you notice powdery mildew or leaf spot on the foliage, start treatment right away, as this can harm the whole plant; you can either remove the infected leaves or use a safe fungicide. Be aware that pests like aphids, slugs, and Japanese beetles often target this plant. A single Digitalis Purpurea can produce up to two million seeds, making it a strong perennial that can become invasive if not managed. To prevent this, you can remove the wilted flower stalks or easily transplant the young seedlings elsewhere. This plant serves as a fantastic background due to its height and attracts bees and hummingbirds while also being resistant to deer and rabbits.
Harvesting: For fresh flowers, cut long stems of flowers that have just opened and place them in water right away; make sure to strip any leaves that will be submerged. Be cautious when handling, as this entire plant is toxic to both humans and animals and can be deadly if ingested.
Seed Saving: Keep an eye on the growing Digitalis Purpurea seed heads because they will burst open and drop their seeds when they're fully mature. Once the seed head can be easily opened to show ripe brown seeds, it's time to collect them. Take off the whole stalk or just the individual heads as they mature, and give them a shake to release the seeds. Make sure to store the cleaned foxglove seeds in a cool, dry spot.
