Foxglove is not a native plant. It was imported from Europe many years ago. It has spread widely, especially in foothills of the Cascades and in the Coast Range.

Foxglove forms large stands, particularly in clearcuts and along roadsides. Also in mesic meadows.

It was likely introduced originally for medicinal purposes, but now it is also planted for aesthetic reasons.

The first year of growth of the common foxglove produces only the stem with its long, basal leaves. During the second year of the plant's life, a long, leafy stem with flowers grows atop the roots of healthy plants.

It is said that the roots, sap, flowers, seeds, pollen, and leaves of foxglove are all poisonous

The foxglove plant contains certain chemicals that are useful in the productions of drugs. These chemicals include cardiac glycosides and digoxin. Thus the scientific name Digitalis.