Foxglove
Digitalis purpurea
UK Green ListEasy to see📍 Lake District
Season
Year-round. Flowers June to September.
Best time of day
Any. That spike.
Lake District
Woodland clearings. Roadside. Throughout the Lakes. That purple spike. June to September. Toxic. Don't eat. Biennial. First year rosette. Second year flowers.
UK population
Widespread. Common.
Overview
Foxgloves are that purple spike. Woodland clearings. Roadside. Throughout the Lakes. June to September. Toxic. Don't eat. Digitalis. Heart medicine. Biennial.
At a Glance
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Habitat | Woodland clearing · Roadside · Banks |
| UK population | Widespread. Common. |
| Lake District | Woodland clearings. Roadside. Throughout the Lakes. That purple spike. June to September. Toxic. Don't eat. Biennial. First year rosette. Second year flowers. |
| Conservation | UK Green List |
Where to See It
Woodland clearings, roadside. Throughout the Lakes. That purple spike. Toxic. Biennial.
Identification
Purple spike. Spotted inside. Toxic. Biennial. Unmistakeable.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Woodland clearings. That purple spike. Toxic. Don't eat.
Conservation Status
UK Green List
This species has a favourable conservation status in the UK and remains an important part of Lake District biodiversity.
Plan your visit to the Lake District
RSPB Haweswater, Grizedale Forest, Leighton Moss. Practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.