Scrophulariaceae: a hardy biennial growing to 1.2 m (4ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in). Found growing manly on acid soils in woods, heaths, mountain grasslands. Pendant, tubular, Pure white flowers on tall one-sided spires. June - September. Softly hairy leaves. Native range are Western Europe, including Britain, from Norway to Spain and Sardinia.
Foxgloves contain cardioactive glycosides, which vary from species to species, and according to weather and site, in pharmaceutical terms, ‘digitalis’ refers to the powered leaf of Digitalis purpurea; it is used in the form of tablets or capsules for certain conditions, Digitalin is a standardized mixture of glycosides from Digitalis purpurea, formerly used as a solution for injection. Parts used are the leaves, these are very bitter, diuretic and are used to strengthen heart contractions.
Surface sow seeds early spring in a cold frame or greenhouse, seeds usually germinates in 2 - 4 weeks at 20°C. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. If you have enough seed, it can be sown outdoors in situ in the spring or autumn.