Foxglove (Digitalis) is a striking biennial plant known for its tall spires of bell-shaped flowers that appear in the second year of growth. Identifying seedlings early is important because young foliage can be mistaken for common weeds. Proper identification prevents accidental removal and is crucial since all parts of the foxglove are highly toxic if ingested due to cardiac glycosides.
Initial Appearance: Cotyledons and True Leaves
The very first structures to emerge from the soil are the cotyledons, or seed leaves, which are small, simple, and generally oval or paddle-shaped. These initial leaves are often light green and appear opposite each other on a tiny stem. The cotyledons do not resemble the leaves of the mature plant.
The true leaves appear shortly after the cotyledons and are the first reliable indicators of the plant’s identity. These true leaves begin to form a low-growing, compact arrangement called a basal rosette. They are a bright green color and develop a noticeably downy or fuzzy texture due to a covering of fine hairs.
The leaves themselves are ovate to lanceolate, meaning they are spade-like or broadly spear-shaped, with edges that are finely scalloped or toothed. A defining characteristic is the appearance of prominent veins that create a slightly crinkled, almost quilted texture on the surface of the leaf. As the seedling grows throughout its first year, this rosette of leaves will expand while remaining low to the ground.
Distinguishing Foxglove Seedlings from Weeds
The basal rosette structure, where leaves radiate out close to the soil, is common among many garden weeds, making misidentification a frequent issue. Foxglove seedlings are sometimes confused with plants like common comfrey, burdock, or great mullein, but a close examination of the leaf structure reveals clear differences. The specific combination of a fuzzy texture and finely toothed leaf margins is a strong distinguishing feature for foxglove.
Common comfrey, which has a similar broad leaf shape, can be differentiated because its leaf edges are untoothed and smooth, unlike the serrated margin of the foxglove leaf. Great mullein seedlings are often much hairier than foxglove and also have untoothed leaf edges. The prominent, depressed veins that give the foxglove leaf its wrinkled appearance help separate it from other smooth-leaved rosettes.
Next Steps: Handling and Transplanting Seedlings
Once a foxglove seedling has been correctly identified and has developed several true leaves, the gardener can begin managing its growth. Foxgloves often self-seed readily, resulting in densely clustered groups that require thinning to prevent overcrowding. Crowded seedlings should be carefully separated and moved to allow each plant enough space to develop fully.
The best time to move seedlings is when they are small enough to handle without causing root damage. When transplanting, it is important to carefully dig up the entire root system, keeping soil intact around the roots. The plants should be spaced approximately 12 to 14 inches apart to accommodate their mature size. Since foxglove flowers in the second year, the placement should be considered permanent for its eventual bloom.