🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Grecian foxglove is primarily grown for its medicinal properties. It is the main source of digoxin, a cardiac glycoside used to treat heart conditions. In the garden, it acts as a pollinator attractant, particularly for long-tongued bees. Its tall flower spikes can provide vertical structure in borders. Caution: All parts of the plant are poisonous. Handle with care and keep away from children and pets.
Permapeople description
Grecian foxglove (Digitalis lanata) is a species of flowering plant in the plantain family Plantaginaceae. It is native to Eastern Europe, including the Balkans and parts of Russia. It is a herbaceous perennial plant that can grow up to 1 meter in height. The plant has lance-shaped leaves that are arranged in a rosette at the base of the stem. The stem is tall and erect, and bears spikes of white or cream-colored flowers with purple or brown markings. The plant prefers well-drained soils and partial to full sun exposure. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens.
Botanical description
Digitalis lanata is a biennial or short-lived perennial plant in the Plantaginaceae family. It features a basal rosette of lance-shaped, dark green leaves from which a tall, erect flower spike emerges. The flower spike can reach 2-3 feet in height and bears numerous tubular, creamy-white flowers with intricate brown veining. Each flower is approximately 1-1.5 inches long. The plant produces small capsule fruits containing numerous tiny seeds. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade.
Companion planting
Digitalis lanata can be grown near plants that benefit from pollinator activity. Avoid planting it near plants that are particularly attractive to slugs or snails, as they may damage the foliage. It is also best to avoid planting it near edible plants that could be accidentally contaminated during harvesting, given its toxicity.
Propagation methods
Digitalis lanata can be propagated by seeds sown in spring or early summer. It can also self-seed readily in favorable conditions. While division is possible with established clumps, it is not the most common method. Stem cuttings are rarely used but can be attempted with care.
History and traditions
Historically, Digitalis lanata has been used in traditional medicine for its cardiotonic properties. Its use in modern medicine dates back to the late 18th century when William Withering studied the effects of foxglove extracts on dropsy (edema). The plant's name 'Digitalis' comes from the Latin word 'digitus' meaning finger, referring to the ease with which a finger can be inserted into the flower.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs in summer (June-August). Seeds can be sown in spring (March-May) or late summer (August-September). Seedlings should be transplanted in the fall or following spring. Deadheading spent flower spikes can encourage a second bloom or prevent excessive self-seeding.