Status in Florida: Not native, cultivated as an ornamental
Native Habitat: Europe, North Africa, and temperate Asia
Growing Zones: 4-9 (in Florida, it's typically treated as a biennial or short lived perennial in 8a, 8b, 9a, and 9b)
Size at Maturity: 2-5 feet tall
Phenology: Biennial or short-lived perennial
Life Cycle: Biennial
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
Growth Habit: Upright, herbaceous
Bloom Season: Spring to early summer
Bloom Color: Purple, pink, white, or yellow, often with spotted throats
Sunlight Requirements: Part shade to full sun
Soil Texture: Well-drained, moist, fertile soil
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
Moisture Requirements: Average to moist
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low/None
Keystone Plant: No
Recommended Landscape Uses: Cottage gardens, woodland gardens, and borders
Maintenance Tips: Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming, provide support for tall plants
Considerations: All parts of the plant are highly toxic
Hurricane Wind Resistant: Low
Erosion Control: No
Nitrogen Fixing: No
Edible: Highly toxic
Pet Safe: Highly toxic
Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Moderate
Historical Medicinal Uses: Source of digitalis, a heart medication
Wildlife Benefit: Pollinators (bees)
Caterpillar Host Plant: No