Foxglove (III): Summer Crush
Who knew a flower could take me on such an emotional whirlwind? From cautious curiosity about its toxicity to full-blown obsession...
I was intrigued by foxglove’s dual nature as both a killer and a healer, a favorite food for beneficial insects . But my fascination for foxglove has grown rapidly after discovering its deep connections with people.
Heirloom plant
The acquaintance showed me a vacation photo from her parents' cottage, and a gorgeous wall of foxgloves caught my eye. "They were planted two decades ago from seedlings in my grandparents' garden. They are hardy and easy on in all types of soil. They self-seed and grow fast. My mom gave me two plants when I got married," she said.
Foxglove is like her family living memories, carrying stories across generations. Their roots go deep and spread wide, bringing together those who nurture them.
I have a bit of nostalgia, always drawn to old things. I got obsessed with foxglove after the chat with the acquaintance, I could’t wait to have it in my yard.
Poetic, artistic and literary resonance
Through a bit of Googling, I discovered the fondness poets, writers, and artists have for foxgloves.
Foxglove appears in the poem The Dark Forest by Edward Thomas, one of the best English war poets. The poem is about life and death.
- ’s post shows contemporary poets and artists' appreciation of foxgloves.
I accidentally found out that it’s
s favorite flower, featured in a stunning painting in his recent post.It is in the Vincent Van Gogh’s painting of his doctor, Paul Gachet, the famous 19th physician.
My newfound love
Until a sketch prompt by
three weeks ago, I didn’t notice foxglove’s vibrant spike of pink-purple, finger-shaped flowers, let alone know its name.The more I've learned about foxglove’s connection with humans and nature, the deeper my appreciation has grown for its beauty, resilience, and complexities.
I find joy in this short journey of discovery, understanding, and fascination.
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Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I love that you have such a fun for extreme opposites in the same plant. It’s kind of like an oxymoron I guess. It sounds like your friend really rubbed off on you.
"Foxglove is like her family living memories, carrying stories across generations."
I love this!
I learned so much about this flower from your posts, it's so beautiful, both poison and medicine, as well as food for pollinators. Its connection to your family history is beautiful. Thank you for sharing it!