A variation on that theme suggests that the forest's little people distributed these flowers to foxes to wear as gloves during raids on chicken coops. The idea probably held some appeal to the local farm population, as a gloved fox could easily be held responsible for any raids where the culprit escaped without a trace. This is because the thimble-like blossoms fit a human finger almost perfectly. With such distinct thimble-like qualities, a child would almost certainly feel obliged to poke a finger inside the flower. While this act alone is not unsafe, parents should be warned that all parts of the foxglove plant contain highly toxic alkaloids.
Common foxglove is biennial.
Since biennial plants live for two growing seasons, but flower only in the second, survival of the first winter is crucial for flowering. This is a major problem for prairie gardeners as our winters are somewhat more formidable than those the plant would face in its native habitat of Europe, western Asia and northern Africa. The plants are said to prefer acid soil, but seem to do well on our less-acidic prairie soils. Because of their tall floral spikes, they also benefit from a somewhat sheltered location where they are protected from wind. On more exposed sites, plants can be staked.