Garden Notes Foxglove

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There are several species of foxglove that are perennial, D. grandiflora, Yellow foxglove is the most common of the perennials. Foxglove purpurea are not perennial but Biennial. That means they complete their life cycle in 2 years and then die. The first year is plant and leaf growth, and the second is flower and seed. They will however continue to reseed in your garden and so can provide you with bloom each year. There is also an annual foxglove, Foxy, that grows and flowers in 5 months from seed.

Whether annual, biennial, or perennial, they all enjoy the same culture. Moderately rich, neutral to acidic,well drained to moist soil to which peat has been added, suits these plants fine.

They grow in zones 4 to 9 and the foliage can be evergreen in mild winters.

They will grow in full sun to partial shade. Provide shade if grown in the south. A summer mulch helps to conserve moisture.

Colours range from white, to pinks and purples, to yellow. The throats are spotted with purple or white spots. The long bell shaped tubular spring blooming flowers are held along the tall stalk, as high as 5 or 6 feet tall. They may require staking if planted in a windy site.

Propagation is by seed for biennials, seed or division, for perennials. Seed in summer or early spring for flowers the following year. If you seed for two consecutive years the re-seeding may provide you with yearly blooms. The seeds are tiny, and need only to be scattered on the surface of the soil. Thin the seedlings where they are to grow, or, if sown in pots, transplant to their permanent home when large enough, 3 to 5" tall. Space 15" to 18" apart, and fertilize monthly. Divide perennial clumps in early spring or fall. Divide clumps every 3 to 4 years to prevent overcrowding.

Hummingbirds love foxglove flowers. They are best suited to the back or middle of the perennial border because of their height, although some perennial varieties are shorter. They can be a stately, striking plant in the partially shaded garden in early summer, and late spring. They are ideally suited to a cottage garden, and will naturalize well in a semishaded spot.

Slugs and snails can cause damage to the leaves, so take precautions.

Foxglove is the source of the medication digitalis, and the leaves are poisonous!