Spring is a glorious time of the year, for the renewing energy of the Earth to pour her magic into all of her blossoming children. Flowers are blooming, scenting the air with their sweetness, as we welcome the Faerie Folk to our gardens to protect and give the plants their loving guidance. Foxglove flowers are beautiful, bell-shaped blooms that are a favorite among the Faerie Folk. By planting them in your garden, you invite the wisdom and protection of these magical people.
Foxglove is known by many folk names, Faerie Fingers, Fox Bells, Lus na mbau side (Gaelic), Witches Thumbs, and many more. Each plant may produce several stalks, bearing multiple, bell-shaped flowers that tower up the stalk, often reaching a height of 4-6 feet. The most beautiful Foxglove plants I have ever seen were growing in Monterey, California. I was so impressed by this plant, it has become a must in my garden every year.
Digitalis is the common drug that is derived from this plant. It is used as a cardiac stimulant. The extracted digitoxin from root, leaves, and flowers, increases the force of heart contractions, making it beneficial for congestive heart failure. As the drug causes increased contractions, it helps the heart to empty its ventricles, giving it more time to rest between contractions and fill with blood from the veins. Digitalis/Foxglove must never be administered without supervision of a physician, as incorrect dosing can easily be fatal. The signs of Foxglove poisoning include: strong, slow pulse, vomiting, dizziness, diarrhea, tremors, and convulsions.
Even though Foxglove is considered poisonous for medicinal purposes, it is a beautiful plant and a special treat to grow in the garden, just make sure it is kept out of the reach of your pets, children, and other wild creatures that may wonder into your garden.
For magical uses, Foxglove grown in the garden protects the garden and home. It is feminine gender, ruled by the planet Venus and the element water. It can also be used for dyeing purposes, the flowers producing a chartreuse color when used with alum.
Foxglove can be grown from seed, germinating in about 14 days. Plant the seed in loose soil,covering with 1/4 inch soil. It must be planted in late spring or early summer to become strong enough to survive the winter, blooming the second season after planting. It can tolerate a variety of soils and growing conditions, growing best in partial shade and kept relatively moist. Foxgloves can also tolerate freezing temperatures, requiring some protection from the snow in the winter.
When planning your gardens this spring, consider growing Foxglove for its magical properties and beauty. You will be pleasantly surprised by this showy plant, and you may even notice a few Faerie Folk dropping by!
Happy Gardening!
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