Foxglove

About the Foxglove

The source of digitalis, one of the most important heart medications ever discovered - used to treat heart failure and arrhythmias. William Withering published his findings on foxglove for treating dropsy (edema) in 1785. All parts are highly toxic - ingestion can cause fatal cardiac arrest. They are biennial, producing a rosette of leaves the first year and flowers the second. A single plant can produce 1-2 million seeds. They naturalize freely in suitable conditions. The spots and patterns on the flowers serve as nectar guides for bees. Over 20 species. The name may derive from folkes glove (fairy glove).