Foxgloves

Planting foxgloves

Sow in late spring or summer for blooms the following year, or set out nursery starts in spring. Seed needs light, so press it into the surface without covering.

Planting details

• Biennial habit: foliage the first year, flower spikes the second
• Spacing: 12 to 18 inches at the back of the border
• Self-sows reliably if a stalk or two is left to set seed

Growing requirements

Foxgloves prefer part shade and moist, humus-rich soil, though they take more sun where summers are cool. All parts are toxic if eaten, so site them away from play areas and pets.

Harvesting and care

Cut the main spike after bloom to encourage smaller side shoots, or leave a stalk standing to seed next year's plants. Wear gloves when handling if the sap irritates your skin.

Common mistakes

• Expecting first-year flowers from seed, which bloom in year two
• Planting where children or pets can reach the leaves
• Cutting every stalk in fall, which ends the self-sowing that keeps them coming back

Companion plants

Foxgloves rise behind hostas, ferns, and astilbe in part shade, and repeat the cottage-border look well beside delphiniums.