Foxglove is a biennial — it grows as a leafy rosette in its first year and sends up its dramatic flower spikes in its second. The tall, spotted tubular bells in pink, purple, cream, and white are among the most striking things in a late-spring cutting garden, and bumblebees work them systematically from the bottom of the spike upward.
Sow seed in late spring or early summer for blooms the following year. Once established, foxglove self-seeds freely and will appear to persist in the garden — each year the previous season's seedlings are flowering while new ones establish. Note: all parts of Digitalis purpurea are toxic if ingested. Gloves when handling.
Powdery mildew
White or grey powdery coating on leaves — usually starting on older growth in humid conditions or when nights cool.
Improve air circulation by thinning plants. Apply neem oil or potassium bicarbonate spray at first sign. Avoid overhead watering.
Botrytis (grey mould)
Grey fuzzy mould on petals and stems, worst in cool wet conditions.
Remove affected parts immediately. Improve air circulation. Avoid overhead watering. Apply copper fungicide if severe.