Digitalis lanata
Family: Scrophulariaceae
TOXIC
Biennial. Native to south-eastern Europe. Since the middle
of the nineteenth century, this is the Foxglove species most widely used
for production of the cardiac glycosides which are the basic materials
for heart stimulating medicines such as Digoxin. This plant is absolutely
stunning. By the way, do not ever ingest!
Cultivation: Extra care. Sow seed in the early spring
on the surface of a flat in the greenhouse. Light dependent germinator.
May take up to four weeks to germinate. In the first year, it will
make a dense rosette of leaves, which send up vertical stalks and blooms
the following spring and summer. Grecian Foxglove likes a sandy
soil, rich in lime and nutrients, and will tolerate full sun and summer
drought. Space plants 2 feet apart. Flowers to 2 to 3 feet tall.
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