The Shops at Mount Vernon Foxglove Seed Pack

Purple Foxglove: Digitalis purpurea

Digitalis purpurea was a colonial favorite of the gardener and the apothecary. Foxglove was brought to Mount Vernon in 1787 as a gift for the Washingtons due to its medicinal properties. Even today, extracts from a relative, Digitalis lanata, are used to make prescription drugs to treat heart conditions and other ailments.

Foxglove is a biennial and prefers full to part sun and moist but not wet soil. The first year foxglove produces a basal rosette of light gray-green leaves. During the second year, tall flower spikes grow from the base of the plant, reaching heights of 2-4′. These beautiful flowers will fill the garden in May and June, creating a stunning display in shades of pink, lavender, and white, especially dramatic when planted en masse. Foxglove will set seed and self-sow in the garden. Deer and rabbit resistant.

Caution: Foxglove is poisonous if ingested.

Sow seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the last average frost date or direct sow into the garden in late spring or early fall. Press the seeds lightly into the soil. Do not cover. Keep seeds moist but not wet and at 70°F. Seeds germinate in 2-4 weeks. USDA Zones 4-8.

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