- Foxglove plants have a two-year lifespan. A circular leaf formation called a basal rosette develops during the first year. Flowering stalks develop during the second year and grow to heights of 3 to 5 feet. From one side of the stalks---or spires---emerge tubular, funnel-shaped flowers that grow in elongated drooping clusters. The blossoms may be white, purple, yellow or pink.
- Foxglove plants are hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 9, depending upon the cultivar. They prefer cool climates, partial shade and well-drained, nutrient-rich, moist, acidic soil. Foxglove plants are vulnerable to attacks from insect pests such as Japanese beetles, slugs, aphids and mealybugs. They are also susceptible to root and crown rot diseases, leaf spot and powdery mildew infections.
- Foxglove leaves and seeds contain chemicals called cardiac glycosides that affect the heart. The chemicals are useful in low doses. Commercial growers cultivate, harvest and market foxglove leaves for use in a prescription medication called digitalis that regulates the heartbeat. The same chemicals, however, may kill people and animals if the plant is ingested. The symptoms of foxglove poisoning include nausea, vomiting, irregular heartbeat and heart attack, often followed by death.
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