Key Facts
- A clump forming foxglove valued for spikes of tubular cream to pale yellow flowers
- Native to Southeast Europe and parts of the eastern Mediterranean
- Grown as a biennial or short lived perennial in gardens
- Leaves contain cardiac glycosides used historically in medicine
- All plant parts are poisonous to people and animals if ingested
- Prefers moist but well drained soils and some protection from hot afternoon sun
- Propagated easily by seed and sometimes by basal cuttings
- Often self seeds if flowers are allowed to set seed
Grecian Foxglove, Digitalis lanata, forms clumps topped by spikes of creamy tubular flowers that stand about two to three feet tall. It is used for back of border planting and naturalizing in cool, shady spots, and all parts are poisonous so plant away from children and pets.
Identification
Clump forming perennial or biennial with spikes of cream to pale yellow tubular flowers. Flowering stems reach about 24 to 36 inches tall and individual clumps spread roughly 12 to 24 inches. Leaves contain cardiac glycosides and are toxic if ingested.
Best uses
Place at the back of a mixed border for late spring color or allow to naturalize in a partly shaded meadow or under light canopy trees. The upright flower spikes add vertical interest and can be left to set seed to form small drifts.
Where to plant
Performs in full sun to part shade, with some protection from hot afternoon sun in warm climates. Prefers moist but well drained fertile soil, neutral to slightly acidic, and dislikes waterlogged sites which can cause crown rot.
Planting and spacing
Propagate by seed sown in autumn or spring, or by taking basal cuttings to retain named types. Space plants about 12 to 24 inches apart to allow room for clump development and air movement.
Watering and soil care
Keep soil evenly moist. Soil that stays waterlogged leads to rot, and very dry soils reduce growth and flowering. A layer of organic mulch helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool.
After flowering and spread control
Allowing flowers to set seed produces volunteers and larger drifts. To limit self seeding, deadhead spent spikes and remove seed pods before they split. For gardeners keeping specific cultivars, take basal cuttings rather than growing from seed.
Propagation
Easily grown from seed and often self seeds in the garden. Basal cuttings are used to propagate and preserve particular selections.
Safety and handling
All parts are poisonous and contain cardiac glycosides. Wear gloves when handling foliage, keep plants away from areas used by children and pets, and contact local poison control or a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Frequently asked questions
- How fast does Grecian Foxglove grow?
- Plants often form a low rosette in the first year when grown as a biennial and produce flowering spikes in the second year. Flowering stems reach about 24 to 36 inches when in bloom.
- When does Grecian Foxglove bloom?
- It typically blooms in late spring to early summer, roughly May to July in temperate Northern Hemisphere climates, with timing varying by location and seedling age.
- Is Grecian Foxglove poisonous?
- Yes, all parts are poisonous and can cause serious cardiac symptoms if ingested. Keep away from children and pets and use protective gloves when handling.
- How do I stop it from self seeding?
- Deadhead flower spikes after bloom and remove seed pods before they split. Pull or transplant volunteer seedlings if you want to prevent larger colonies.
- Can I propagate Grecian Foxglove from seed?
- Yes, it is easily grown from seed sown in autumn or spring. Basal cuttings are useful for maintaining named cultivars.
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