Water
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Adequate watering promotes healthy foliage and vibrant flower spikes.
Also known as Common Digitalis · Common Foxglove · Coventry Bells
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Purple foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) is a biennial plant known for its tall spikes of bell-shaped, purple flowers. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and partial shad
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade to Full Sun
50% intensity
Prefers morning sun and afternoon shade in hotter climates.
Regular
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Cool to Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 15-24°C (60-75°F). Protect from extreme heat.
Light
25% intensity
Apply balanced fertilizer once in spring.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Adequate watering promotes healthy foliage and vibrant flower spikes.
Deadhead spent flower stalks to prevent self-seeding if desired, or to encourage a second flush of blooms. Remove any yellowing or diseased foliage promptly to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Cut back dead stems in late autumn.
Easily grown from seed sown in late spring or early summer, or directly outdoors in autumn. Seeds require light to germinate, so sow thinly on the soil surface.
Division of established clumps in spring or autumn is also an option.
Generally, foxgloves are biennials or short-lived perennials and are not typically repotted. If growing from seed or young plants in containers, repot into a slightly larger pot when root-bound, usually in spring before active growth begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Purple Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Digitalis |
| Species | Digitalis purpurea |
Similar in genus Digitalis
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
