foxglove
Digitalis purpurea
RHS Plants for Pollinators
USDA zones4 to 8
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size3 to 5 feet tall12 to 24 inches wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Habit
- Clumping
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer
- Bloom color
- Cream/tan, pink, purple, white
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) is a perennial for borders, cottage gardens, and pollinator gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 4, or down to -30°F (-34°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average to moist soil of most types. It is not a favorite of deer or rabbits, though hungry ones will eat almost anything. Tall spikes of cream, pink, purple, or white flowers open in spring and again in summer. Butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees visit the blooms.
Pairs well with Hardy geranium, Caradonna sage, and Jerusalem sage.
Native range
Europe, Africa, Corse, and Sardegna.