Grecian Foxglove
Grecian foxglove, Digitalis lanata, originally from the southeastern part of Europe and was imported to the United States as an ornamental. Grecian foxglove's invasive characteristics allowed it to escape cultivation and invade Kansas pastures, hay meadows, and timber. The plant produces Digitalis, a heart stimulant that could kill cattle and adversely affect humans if the plant is eaten or if bare skin is subject to prolonged exposure. Due to these risks, KDA enacted a permanent quarantine on Grecian foxglove in May of 2001.
Grecian foxglove is a perennial that develops a rosette during the first summer. In the second and subsequent years, Grecian foxglove produces a flowering stalk in late May and continues into June. Seeds develop in pods that have small hooks, enabling the pods to be transported by animal fur or clothing.
Since 1998, KDA has headed up an eradication effort on a 220 acre tract of land in Wilson County. Every summer and fall, KDA staff hike the rugged terrain in the Flint Hills, surveying and controlling Grecian foxglove with backpack sprayers and hand clippers. Although eradication hasn't been achieved yet, substantial reductions in the density and rate of spread have been accomplished.
For more information click on the following link:
Grecian Foxglove Brochure
