Terrestrial invasive species

Nature

Most of these invasive plant factsheets are created from the booklet Minnesota invasive non-native terrestrial plants, an identification guide for resource managers.

Check the additional resources and herbicides table for more information.

Grecian foxglove (Digitalis lanata)


 

Description:

Appearance: Biennial herbaceous plant; first year rosette; second year single to multiple coarse erect stems 2- 5' high.

Leaves: First year rosette leaves spear-shaped and dark green, second year alternate along stem.

Flowers: Elongated flower cluster, conspicuous cream colored, tubular flowers, with purplish-brown veins, blooming in June.

Seeds: In pods with small hooks which attach easily to fur and clothes.

Caution: Wear long sleeves and gloves to avoid prolonged skin contact.

Ecological Threat:

  • In Minnesota it has been found primarily in Washington County in the vicinity of the St. Croix River along sunny to semi-shaded road ditches.
  • It grows in single species stands and is a potential threat to savanna and prairie communities.
  • It is toxic to humans and animals.
  • Cream colored, tubular flowers, with It is native to southeastern Europe's scrub oak forests.
  • Grecian foxglove is a MDA Prohibited Noxious Weed (Eradicate List) in Minnesota. Report Grecian foxglove by emailing "Arrest the Pest" arrest.the.pest@state.mn.us or calling 651-201-6684 (metro) or 1-888-545-6684 (toll-free)

 

Control Methods:

Mechanical

Pulling and cultivation

 

Chemical

Spot spraying with glyphosate, or selective herbicide metsulfuron

 

 

Native Substitutes:

Additional Resources