Foxglove
Digitalis purpurea
Recognise!
The inflorescences of the Foxglove, growing up to 2 m height, are found regularly in the forest clearings or in embankments. The light purple tubular flowers show darker spots on the inside called nectar guides. The whole plant is hairy.
Did you know?
The foxglove belongs to the most poisonous plants in our regions; a few grams of dried leaves can be mortal. It contains cardiac glycosides, that with adequate dosing give an excellent medication against heart failure. The leaves of the foxglove may be confused with those of the harmless comfrey. However it is easy to sense the difference, whereas the hairy foxglove leaves are smooth, those of comfrey are rough.
John van Breda