Exotic #9:
COMMON FOXGLOVE
Digitalis purpurea

Foxglove, Digitalis purpurea

Photo © Curt Simpson

Foxglove is as well-known by its genus name of Digitalis because its leaves provide the drug used as a heart stimulant; the species is purpurea. Hybrid forms in many colors such as pink, yellow, and purple are available from nurseries. Its large flowers make it a favorite of the typical Ruby-throated Hummingbird. (Thanks to Curt Simpson of Wallace, North Carolina for submitting the Foxglove photo at left.)

If you have a sharp photo of this hummingbird flower you would like to contribute for this page, please send it to PROJECTS with info about when and where the photo was taken, the photographer's name, and any anecdotal info about the plant.

CULTIVATION TIPS

Biennial
Blooms summer
Soil moist but well-drained
Sun or light shade, full shade in hot areas
Zones 4-10

NOTE: We are not horticulturists, so we regret we can't answer specific questions about how to plant and propagate hummingbird flowers, but your local agriculture extension office or Master Gardener group may be able to help. We're also unable to provide names of sources from which you can order plants.

Back to "Top Ten" Exotic Hummingbird Plants

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