Rusty Foxglove

Digitalis ferruginea

Physical Characteristics

Digitalis ferruginea is a BIENNIAL/PERENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in) at a medium rate. It is in flower in July, and the seeds ripen in September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

S. and S.E. Europe to W. Asia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Cardiac Stimulant Tonic The leaves are cardiac, stimulant and tonic[46, 61]. They are often used in the treatment of certain heart complaints.

Known Hazards

All parts of the plant are poisonous[7, 65].