The best spots to see Bowen Island Foxgloves, Plus How The Plant Got Its Name, Its Significance in Ecological Philosophy, and more
Did you know that the Latin name for Foxglove is Digitalis purpurea, with 'digitalis' deriving from the word 'digitus,' meaning finger? This connection to the plant's tubular flowers resembling hands hints at its ability to captivate human attention. Image via Pexels.
Here on Bowen Island, Foxgloves are typically in bloom starting in late May lasting to late June or early July, displaying their showy, tubular blooms in vibrant hues of purple, pink, white, and yellow that stand out in woodlands and other grassy or forested habitats.
The Latin name Digitalis purpurea, from which the 'digitalis' chemical derives its name, is utilized in medicine for managing blood pressure and heart conditions. Nonetheless, it's crucial to note that all parts of the Foxglove are toxic if consumed. Despite this, the appeal of the Digitalis genus, which boasts 20 diverse species of Foxgloves, remains undiminished. Perhaps it's their enchanting beauty juxtaposed with their toxic nature that captivates. Since 'digitalis' originates from 'digitus', meaning finger, this could symbolize the plant's allure, as if its delicate blooms (or fingers) are beckoning humans to engage with it spiritually.
Welcome to Nectar Yoga Retreat’s blog, where each month in 2024, we’re spotlighting a local plant or fungi (check our article on pleurotus oyster mushroom) that grow here on Bowen Island. Part of our wellness centre’s mission involves continually learning from and caring for the forest and waters surrounding Nectar Retreat, encouraging guests staying on Bowen Island to connect with these natural wonders. Whether you're staying in Nectar’s forest cabins, adjacent to our upcoming sister brand and wellness spa, Mist Thermal Sanctuary (launching in early fall), or a Bowen Island airbnb / hotel, we invite visitors (and locals) to explore and engage with these botanical beauties as one of the things to do on Bowen Island during your getaway.
Read further to discover where to find Foxgloves on Bowen Island, as well as learn more about Foxgloves’ medical role, symbolic significance, and other facts. Nectar’s June’s playlist, themed abundance, will add some ambience.
Where to Find Foxgloves on Bowen Island?
Since Bowen Island maintains a fairly natural and forested landscape, Foxgloves can be found virtually throughout its grounds. Andrea Clark, Nectar’s co-creatrix, has a few favourite spots to share:
At the Cape - Less than a 5 minute drive from Bowen Island’s Snug Cove Ferry Terminal, the Cape is the southwest tip of the island, and offers some of the most beautiful views of natural coastal lands. For directions from Snug Cove to The Cape, click here.
On the grounds and trails at Nectar Retreat. For directions from Snug Cove to Nectar, a mere 7 minute drive, click here.
Along Sunset Road, a 3 minute drive from Nectar Retreat. For directions from Nectar to Sunset Road, click here.
And even on stretches of Bowen Island roadsides. Just explore!
Where Do Foxgloves Grow Best?
Digitalis purpurea has a native range that spans across several countries in Western Europe and Northern Africa. With settlers, Foxgloves have also naturalized in various parts of North America, including on Bowen Island. Foxgloves grow in partial sunlight to deep shade, in habitats that include open forests, woodland clearings, sea cliffs, mountain slopes and moorlands (grasslands, savannas, and shrublands). Depending on the species and cultivar, Foxglove plants can reach heights of 3 to 6 feet (0.9 to 1.8 meters). As their leaf juices can irritate sensitive skin; it’s recommended to not handle them, or to wear gloves. Additionally, it's important to keep Foxgloves out of reach of children and dogs (and other pets).
While common Foxgloves are valued for attracting pollinators, the Invasive Species Council of BC discourages humans proliferating the plants by planting them in gardens as they are considered invasive species. This means while we can feel a certain awe when we see them naturalized in the wild, it’s important we don’t further promote its proliferation.
Foxgloves can be found at the Cape on Bowen Island, where they play a role in supporting the biodiversity of local ecosystem by attracting pollinators. Image source: Pexels
Foxgloves’ Ecological Importance
The Foxglove goes beyond its visual allure; it plays a crucial role in supporting ecosystems by attracting pollinators, especially bees, with its nectar-rich flowers. This partnership fosters biodiversity and aids in pollination, benefiting the surrounding plant life.
Studies on Foxgloves show that the plant’s robust root systems contribute to soil stabilization particularly in sloping terrains, preventing erosion.
In a 2021 study published by the British Ecological Society, researchers observed rapid changes in Foxglove flowers upon their introduction to North and South America. This adjustment, driven by their new pollinators, hummingbirds, highlights plants' ability to adapt to environmental shifts through physical modifications. The study noted a significant increase in the size of the proximal corolla tube, up to 26 percent larger in foxgloves found in Colombia and Costa Rica, as they adapted to their local pollinators. This adaptation reflects a deeper ecological philosophy, portraying Foxgloves as agents of connection and adaptability, emphasizing the importance of meeting others where they are.
What is the Medicinal Use of Foxglove?
The seemingly contradictory nature of Foxgloves lies in their toxicity alongside containing a compound used in heart medication. The plant naturally contains glycosides which can be lethal if ingested but, when refined and used in modern medicine, can be a valuable treatment for patients with congestive heart failure when administered in combination with other medications and at the appropriate dosage.
This is when despite Foxglove being a poisonous plant, humans can still learn from it. University of Buffalo biologist Zhen Wang, says,
“We can learn from nature. We can study all of the available compounds that are found in the plants and then come up with our own design of compounds that are safer and more effective.”
Similarly, yet differently, Dr Robin Wall Kimmerer, Associate Professor of Environmental and Forest Biology at the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF), and Potawatomi author of Gathering Moss and Braiding Sweetgrass shares this about relating with plants and other living things,
“Every being is endowed with certain gifts, its own intelligence, its own spirit, its own story. Our stories tell us that the Creator gave these to us, as original instructions. The foundation of education is to discover that gift within us and learn to use it well.”
In this way, developing a connection with plants, such as Foxgloves, even if poisonous when internally consumed, can be immensely beneficial and enriching to human life, fostering an appreciation for nature's complexities and potential healing or other positive properties.
What Does Foxglove Symbolize?
According to editor and artist, Terri Windling, there is a discussion among folklorists regarding the English common name for Digitalis purpurea. In some parts of the British Isles, it is believed to come from "folksglove," connecting the flowers to fairy folk, while in other areas, it is called "fox fingers," as foxes are said to use the blossoms as gloves to protect their paws from dew. Another theory suggests that the name comes from the Anglo-Saxon term "foxes-gleow," where "gleow" means a ring of bells, linked to Norse mythology where foxes wear bell-shaped foxglove blossoms around their necks for protection.
Regardless of its origin, Foxglove is associated with enchantment and a desire for connection. It embodies a dual symbolism of kinship and discernment, seeking connection while also containing poison to establish boundaries when necessary.
Spiritual teacher and writer Susan Gregg extends the symbolism of Foxglove to encompass protection and a beckoning call to connect, especially with fairies. In her Encyclopedia of Magical Plants, she suggests that growing Foxglove in our gardens can protect our homes. Additionally, for those who believe in fairies, she advises “simply hold the fresh leaves in your hand and ask them to be present in your life.” As a safer approach, especially for those who may be concerned whether it’s okay for them to touch Foxgloves, we encourage simply standing in front of Foxgloves and inviting fairies (or other playful or healing energies) to be a part of your life. Or spend some time holding an Intention Candle, associated with protection and communication in front of Foxgloves, then bring the candle in to continue to draw in the energy of the lored plant.
Ways to Further Connect With Foxglove and Other Plants
In Celtic spirituality, a captivating legend describes why Foxgloves gently sway without wind: it's believed they bow to the passing fairy folk. Wherever Foxgloves flourish abundantly, it signifies a realm where the fey are near, as these flowers thrive in a soil enriched with ancient tales, mysteries, and enchantments from the Otherworld.
Two events at the Dome at Nectar on Bowen that are open to the public include the following:
The Full Moon + Foxglove: Summer Solstice Celebration
Friday, June 21, 2024 from 6:45PM - 9PM
Unconscious Made Conscious: Integrating Our Shadows
Saturday, August 31, 2024 from 6:45PM - 9PM
These gatherings are as grounding and meditative, as they are beautiful. Hope to see some of you there!
If you’re new to Nectar Yoga Retreat, we are a Condé Nast Traveler recognized wellness centre. We offer our signature 2-night Experience Package, and are a top BC wedding destination and corporate retreats venue. We also offer spiritual retreats and other wellness community events.
In Nectar Retreat's monthly blog articles for 2024, we’ve been delving into plant explorations, fostering a deeper connection between humans and the planet. We are grateful you’re here, and welcome you to explore our recent articles on Yarrow, Oyster Mushrooms, Mosses and Pines. Join us back here in July, as we spotlight a famed herbal weed, the Dandelion.
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