What is fox gloves?

Foxgloves, also known as Digitalis, are a genus of flowering plants that belong to the family Plantaginaceae. They are native to Europe, Asia, and Africa but have been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America.

Foxgloves can grow up to 6 feet tall and have leaves that form a basal rosette at the base of the plant. The flowers bloom in the summer and come in various shades of purple, pink, white, and yellow. They are tubular in shape and have a distinctive speckled throat.

Foxgloves have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. They contain cardiac glycosides, which can be used to treat heart conditions such as heart failure and arrhythmias. However, it is important to note that ingesting foxgloves can be toxic and even deadly, so it should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Foxgloves are also a popular ornamental plant in gardens. They prefer partial shade and well-draining soil and can be propagated through seed or division. In some areas, they are considered invasive species and can outcompete native plants.