Foxglove

All our seeds are 100% Canadian Grown, Processed-by-Hand, Non-GMO, Certified Organic, and Open Pollinated. From our 10-acre Seed Farm in Metchosin, BC since 2004.

Quick Notes

• Hardy, short-lived perennial that self-seeds readily
• Tall spikes of bell-shaped flowers in shades of pink, purple, white, and cream
• Long-lasting blooms throughout the summer season
• Thrives in cottage gardens, borders, and wildflower meadows
• Will overwinter in milder climates for earlier flowering

About Foxglove
Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) is a classic cottage garden favourite, known for its stunning spires of bell-shaped flowers that rise above deep green foliage. This easy-to-grow perennial thrives in a variety of conditions and readily self-seeds, ensuring a beautiful display for years to come.

Blooming from late spring into summer, foxgloves are highly attractive to bees, hummingbirds, and other pollinators. While typically a short-lived perennial, they can overwinter in mild climates, leading to stronger plants and earlier blooms the following year.

Where Can You Grow Foxglove?
Foxglove grows well in Zones 4-9, preferring partial shade to full sun and moist, well-drained soil. It is ideal for cottage gardens, woodland plantings, and garden borders, adding a vertical element of colour and elegance.

History and Historical Uses
Native to Europe and western Asia, foxglove has been cultivated for centuries as both an ornamental and medicinal plant. Historically, it has been used in herbal medicine, though it is also known for containing compounds that must be handled with caution. Today, foxglove remains a garden staple, admired for its striking flowers and ease of growth.

Canadian Zone Information
Zones 8-9: Direct sow in autumn or early spring for early blooms.
Zones 5-7: Start seeds indoors in late winter or direct sow in spring after the last frost.
Zones 4: Direct sow in spring, or mulch plants for winter protection.

How to Grow and Harvest Foxglove

• Planting: Sow seeds lightly on the surface of moist soil, spacing plants 30-45cm (12-18in) apart.
• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells.
• Flowering: Blooms appear in the second year if started from seed.
• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to prolong blooming, or allow some to go to seed for natural propagation.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply

• Allow to Flower and Seed: Leave some flower spikes to fully mature and dry.
• Harvest Seeds: Once seed pods turn brown, collect them before dispersal.
• Dry and Clean: Shake out seeds and allow them to fully dry.
• Store: Keep seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Properly stored seeds remain viable for up to 3 years.

Certified Organic By

Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)