Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) is a tall, eye-catching biennial wildflower native to the UK, renowned for its elegant spires of tubular purple-pink flowers that bloom in early summer. Found naturally in woodland clearings, hedgerows, and moorlands, it thrives in semi-shaded conditions and acidic soils. Its distinctive flowers are highly attractive to bees, particularly long-tongued species like bumblebees.
Foxglove is a valuable addition to wildflower meadows, woodland edges, and shaded gardens, providing architectural height, colour, and vital nectar sources. Though toxic if ingested, it plays an important role in native flora and pollinator support.
Features & Benefits
Striking purple flower spikes for summer colour
Native UK species ideal for woodland and shaded planting
Biennial life cycle with self-seeding potential
Highly attractive to bumblebees and long-tongued pollinators
Tolerates poor, acidic soils and part shade
Latin Name:
Digitalis purpurea
Flowering Time:
June – August
Flowering Height:
100 – 150 cm
Life Cycle:
Biennial (flowers in the second year, self-seeds freely)
Wildflower Seed Approximate Sowing Rate:
0.5kg per acre (1.25kg per hectare)
Sowing Times:
Spring (March – May) or Autumn (August – October)
How to Sow & Preparation
Choose a location with moist, well-drained soil in partial shade or dappled sunlight.
Clear the area of existing vegetation and cultivate to a fine tilth.
Broadcast the seed evenly and gently firm into the soil surface without covering deeply.
Water during dry spells to encourage germination and establishment.
Foxglove typically flowers in its second year and self-seeds to maintain future displays.
Avoid planting in areas accessed by livestock or pets due to toxicity.
About John Chambers Wildflower Seeds
John Chambers Wildflower Seeds has been a trusted supplier of native UK wildflower seeds for over 35 years. Known for its high-quality, locally sourced seed and outstanding customer service, John Chambers provides ecological solutions for landscape contractors, local authorities, and conservationists focused on creating sustainable, biodiverse landscapes.

Attribute Detail
Latin Name Digitalis purpurea
Flowering Time June – August
Flowering Height 100 – 150 cm
Life Cycle Biennial
Sowing Rate 0.5kg per acre (1.25kg per hectare)
Sowing Period Spring or Autumn
Preferred Conditions Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soils; part shade
Pollinator Friendly Yes
Minimum Order Quantity 100g
Ideal For Woodland edges, hedgerows, shade gardens, rural planting