Foxgloves are the towers of flowers you see at the back of old-fashioned borders. The plants grow up to 6 feet tall (although dwarf varieties are also available). Funnel-shaped flowers, like the fingers of a glove, come in many colors, including pink, purple, red, white, and yellow.

Foxglove is a biennial, but nursery plants set out in spring bloom in spring and summer.

For blooms the first year, set out transplants in a sunny or partly shady spot in spring (or fall, in mild-winter climates). You can also sow seeds directly in the ground in early spring; most varieties of foxglove will bloom the following spring. Make sure that the soil is always moist.

Watch for insects, and put out bait in snail-prone areas. After the first bloom, cut off the main spike to encourage flowers from side shoots.

Warning

Foxglove seeds are poisonous if eaten.