How to Grow Foxglove
Perennial
Foxgloves, or Digitalis, are classic cottage-garden plants with tall spires of tubular flowers that thrive in light shade and humus-rich soil. Many are biennial or short-lived perennials, but they often self-seed happily. All parts are poisonous if eaten, so keep plants and cut stems away from children.
Planting
Sow foxglove seed from May to July in trays or a prepared seedbed, barely covering it because light aids germination. Prick out seedlings and plant them in autumn, spacing them 30 to 45 cm apart, or plant container-grown plants in spring. Choose partial shade or sun with moist, well-drained soil enriched with leaf mould or garden compost. In colder areas, protect young plants from waterlogging and plant in spring if autumn establishment is uncertain.
Care
Water young foxgloves during dry spells and mulch around them in spring to conserve soil moisture. Stake tall flower spikes in exposed gardens. Remove faded stems if you want to limit self-seeding, or leave selected spikes to drop seed where new plants are welcome. Cut old foliage away in late winter. Wear gloves when handling plants and wash hands afterwards.
Bloom time
Most foxgloves flower from June to July, with a later start in cooler northern gardens and Scotland. Some perennial species and repeat-flowering selections extend colour into August. The speckled tubular flowers open gradually up each spire and are especially attractive to bumblebees.
Garden uses
Plant foxgloves in cottage gardens, woodland edges, dappled-shade borders and informal wildlife gardens. Their vertical spires rise beautifully through ferns, hostas and hardy geraniums. They are excellent for bees and suit RHS Plants for Pollinators planting. Flower stems also make a dramatic contribution to arrangements, handled with appropriate care.
Tips
Allow a few healthy plants to seed if you want foxgloves to return naturally, but move unwanted seedlings while small. Choose an AGM variety from the RHS or a local garden centre for dependable performance. Keep all plant material away from children and pets, and never compost it where access cannot be controlled.
Growing Foxglove: frequently asked questions
How do I grow foxglove in the UK?
Sow foxglove seed from May to July in trays or a prepared seedbed, barely covering it because light aids germination.
When does foxglove flower?
Most foxgloves flower from June to July, with a later start in cooler northern gardens and Scotland.
How do I care for foxglove?
Water young foxgloves during dry spells and mulch around them in spring to conserve soil moisture.
General guidance for UK gardens. Timing and hardiness vary by region and season; the RHS or a local garden centre can advise for your area. Page updated 18 Sep 2026.