Foxglove vs. Hollyhock — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 14, 2024
Foxglove, with its tall spikes of tubular flowers, is known for its toxicity and preference for partial shade, whereas hollyhock stands out for its broader, non-toxic blooms and full sun tolerance.
Difference Between Foxglove and Hollyhock
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Foxglove, a biennial plant, is known for its bell-shaped flowers that hang from one side of the stem. Whereas hollyhock is an annual or perennial with large, open-faced flowers that circle the stem.
The flowers of foxglove are typically purple, pink, white, or yellow and are clustered closely on the stem. On the other hand, hollyhocks come in a variety of colors including red, pink, white, and yellow, with flowers more spaced out.
Foxglove thrives in partial shade and often grows in woodland settings or shaded garden areas. Conversely, hollyhocks prefer full sunlight and are commonly found in cottage gardens and along fence lines for their towering height.
Foxglove plants are well-known for their medicinal properties, especially for treating heart conditions, but all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested. In contrast, hollyhocks are safe for gardens with pets and children as they are not toxic.
Both plants attract pollinators like bees and hummingbirds, but foxglove is especially toxic to pets and livestock, requiring careful placement in gardens. Hollyhocks, while non-toxic, can suffer from rust disease which can mar their appearance without proper care.
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Comparison Chart
Flower Shape
Tubular, hang downwards
Large, open, upright
Preferred Lighting
Partial shade
Full sun
Toxicity
Toxic to humans and animals
Non-toxic
Growth Cycle
Biennial
Annual or perennial
Uses
Medicinal properties, ornamental
Ornamental, safe for pet-friendly gardens
Compare with Definitions
Foxglove
Prefers shaded or partially shaded environments.
They planted foxglove under the trees where it's cooler and shaded.
Hollyhock
Thrives in full sunlight.
Hollyhocks need a sunny spot in the garden to grow well.
Foxglove
Known for its toxicity, used in heart medication.
Despite its beauty, foxglove can be deadly if ingested.
Hollyhock
Features large, colorful flowers along its tall stems.
Hollyhocks are a favorite for their dramatic stalks of vibrant flowers.
Foxglove
Requires careful handling due to its toxic nature.
Always wear gloves when handling foxglove to avoid skin irritation.
Hollyhock
An ornamental plant that can be grown as an annual or perennial.
The hollyhock seeds planted last spring bloomed beautifully this summer.
Foxglove
Attracts bees and hummingbirds.
The foxglove in our garden is always buzzing with bees.
Hollyhock
Susceptible to rust disease if not properly cared for.
Keep an eye out for rust on hollyhocks to maintain their health.
Foxglove
A biennial ornamental plant with tubular flowers.
The foxglove looked stunning with its tall spikes of purple blooms.
Hollyhock
Non-toxic, making it safe for gardens with animals.
Hollyhocks are a great choice for anyone with pets.
Foxglove
Any of several herbs of the genus Digitalis, especially D. purpurea of Europe and northern Africa, having a long cluster of large, tubular, pinkish-purple flowers and leaves that are the source of the drug digitalis. Also called digitalis.
Hollyhock
A tall plant (Alcea rosea syn. Althaea rosea) in the mallow family, native to the Middle East and widely cultivated for its showy clusters of very large, variously colored flowers. Also called althea.
Foxglove
Digitalis, a genus of about 20 species of herbaceous biennials native to the Old World, certain of which are prized for their showy flowers. The drug digitalis or digoxin was first isolated from the plant.
Hollyhock
Any of several flowering plants of the genus Alcea in the Malvaceae family.
Foxglove
Any plant of the genus Digitalis. The common English foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) is a handsome perennial or biennial plant, whose leaves are used as a powerful medicine, both as a sedative and diuretic. See Digitalis.
Pan through the pastures oftentimes hath runTo pluck the speckled foxgloves from their stem.
Hollyhock
A species of Althæa (Althæa rosea), bearing flowers of various colors; - called also rose mallow.
Foxglove
Any of several plants of the genus Digitalis
Hollyhock
Any of various plants of the genus Althaea; similar to but having smaller flowers than genus Alcea
Hollyhock
Any of various tall plants of the genus Alcea; native to the Middle East but widely naturalized and cultivated for its very large variously colored flowers
Common Curiosities
What is the typical height of foxglove and hollyhock plants?
Foxglove plants can grow up to 2-5 feet tall, whereas hollyhocks can reach heights of 5-8 feet.
How long do foxglove and hollyhock flowers last?
Both plants have a flowering period in the summer, but hollyhock flowers can last from summer into fall.
Can you grow foxgloves and hollyhocks together?
Yes, they can be grown together if placed correctly according to their sunlight needs—foxgloves in partial shade and hollyhocks in full sun.
What soil conditions do foxgloves and hollyhocks prefer?
Foxgloves prefer well-drained, moist soil, while hollyhocks thrive in well-drained, fertile soil.
What are the common pests that affect hollyhocks?
Hollyhocks often attract Japanese beetles and can be prone to rust, which requires frequent monitoring.
How should I manage toxicity issues with foxglove in a garden?
It is crucial to ensure that foxglove is not accessible to pets or children and to wear gloves when handling the plant.
Are foxgloves or hollyhocks easier to grow?
Hollyhocks are generally easier to grow due to their hardiness and tolerance for various soil types.
How can I propagate hollyhocks?
Hollyhocks can be propagated from seeds, which can be collected from dried flower heads.
Can foxglove and hollyhock be used for cut flowers?
Yes, both can be used in floral arrangements, with foxglove providing dramatic height and hollyhock adding large, colorful blooms.
Are foxglove flowers safe for pollinators?
Yes, while toxic to many animals, foxglove flowers are safe and attractive to bees and hummingbirds.
What wildlife is attracted to hollyhock flowers?
Hollyhocks attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators due to their large, colorful blooms.
Do foxglove and hollyhock require a lot of water?
Both plants like moist soil but are relatively drought-tolerant once established.
What are the medicinal uses of foxglove?
Foxglove is used to produce digitalis, a compound critical in treating heart conditions.
How often should I fertilize foxglove and hollyhock?
Both plants benefit from occasional fertilization, especially during the growing season.
What can be done to prevent rust in hollyhocks?
Ensuring good air circulation, keeping foliage dry, and using fungicidal treatments can help manage rust.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
