Spanish Foxglove

(Digitalis thapsi)

Spanish Foxglove (Digitalis thapsi)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Digitalis thapsi image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Digitalis thapsi, commonly known as Spanish Foxglove or Woolly Foxglove, is a perennial herb that is deciduous or semi-deciduous, depending on the climate. It is native to the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa, typically found in a variety of habitats including open woodlands, scrublands, and meadows, as well as rocky slopes and clearings. This species grows at a moderate rate to a typical height of 1.5-2.5 feet (0.46-0.8 meters) and a width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters). Spanish Foxglove is characterized by its lance-shaped leaves and dense spikes of tubular pink flowers with darker spots inside, which are particularly showy in the summer months.

The plant is valued for its ornamental flowers, which attract pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds. It is used in border plantings, cottage gardens, and as part of naturalistic plantings. Digitalis thapsi requires well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, from clay to sandy loams. It is drought-tolerant once established and prefers full sun to part shade. While it is relatively low maintenance, it is important to note that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested. Spanish Foxglove can be susceptible to crown rot in overly wet conditions and may be affected by pests such as aphids.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1.5-2.5 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant

Natural Habitat

Native to the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa, typically found in open woodlands, scrublands, meadows, rocky slopes, and clearings

Other Names

Common Names: Woolly Foxglove

Scientific Names: , Digitalis thapsi, Digitalis purpurea subsp. thapsi, Digitalis purpurea subsp. thapsi, Digitalis thapsi f. albiflora,

GBIF Accepted Name: