Foxglove is a striking but highly toxic plant found across Scotland, notable for its tubular pink flowers and tall stem. The flowers are perfectly adapted for bees and provide an excellent source of nectar in a cosy, sheltered environment. If ingested, Foxglove is highly poisonous, causing severe nausea, heart problems and can even be fatal. Ironically, however, the heart medications digoxin and digitalin are derived from the plant, as it contains cardiac glycosides, which help regulate the heartbeat and boost heart efficiency.
Foxglove is rooted in Scottish folklore, thought to be associated with fairies and storytelling, as it was relayed that their flowers were shaped like fairy hats and petticoats. Likewise, in the Scottish Borders, laying Foxglove leaves around babies’ cradles and boundary gates of houses was common to ward off witches and the evil eye.
