As a gardener and lover of all things botanical, I always find myself drawn to the magic of foxgloves. These tall, elegant, statuesque bloom spires seem to capture the attention of visitors to the garden, standing out in the spring and summer landscape. With their soft and pastel colors, they are a perfect contrast to shrub roses and shorter perennials such as catnip, lavender, or Russian sage. Foxgloves are often complemented by gray-colored foliage perennials like Artemisia, lambs ear, and rose campion, which can provide the perfect backdrop for a charming cottage-style garden. I find that they are at their best when planted in groups or natural drifts, creating a harmonious and cohesive look. And, if you’re lucky, you’ll find a place in your garden where they can reseed freely, adding a touch of whimsy and natural beauty.
However, it’s important to remember that foxgloves are poisonous to both humans and pets. Digitalis, its botanical name, is well-known in medical circles as a cardio drug. As a gardener, I’ve grown them for years and have never had a problem with a pet or livestock consuming them from the garden, but it’s always wise to be aware of their potential dangers.
In my hot and sunny Zone 8 garden, I find that some afternoon shade is helpful for foxgloves to thrive. In fact, I see them as partial shade plants, performing beautifully at the edge of the woodland. They’re also tolerant of a range of soil conditions, from moist and rich to dry and sandy, making them a versatile addition to any garden.
Recently, I’ve been impressed by the selection of Foxgloves available from Gilbert H. Wild & Son. Their collection includes a variety of foxgloves, including the popular ‘Foxy’ series with flowers in shades of cream, lavender, pink, and white. They also offer the ‘Dalmatian’ series, featuring spotted blooms in shades of purple, pink, and white. These foxgloves are all grown and shipped in 3-inch pots, making them easy to transplant and grow in your own garden.
In conclusion, foxgloves are a magical addition to any garden, adding height, color, and contrast. Just be sure to plant them in a safe location away from pets and children, and give them some afternoon shade in hot climates. With their stunning blooms and versatile growing habits, foxgloves are sure to become a favorite in any garden.
