Foxglove in Oregon is around and something we should know how to recognize. Is foxglove native to Oregon? No - it is native to parts of Asia, Africa, and Europe. We have so much lovely flora and foliage in the state, and many of us love to forage, explore, and take in all the beauty and bounty of nature. Yet, we have to be careful because there are toxic plants that resemble harmless plants, and some of them grow in our own yards. Let's take a look at the poisonous plant.
Many plants are as beautiful as they are dangerous and deadly Oregon foxglove is certainly both. Extremely diluted, it is used in some medicines, but as is, the stems, leaves, seeds, and flowers of this plant are toxic to humans and can cause irregular or slowed heartbeat, collapse, shock, nausea, blurred vision, disorientation, weakness, and even death in those with certain medical issues.
The danger is compounded due to foxglove resembling other, more harmless plants, especially when not in bloom. For instance, there are mullein lookalikes as it is quite similar to foxglove without flowers. Both look rather fuzzy with little hairs all over; however, mullein has somewhat more rounded serrations edges and foxglove is more sharply serrated.
Comfrey is a plant that can resemble foxglove when in bloom. The drooping flowers have a similar hue to some foxglove flowers. Like with mullein, you want to look for smoother edges on the leaves compared to foxglove’s jagged edges.
When not in bloom, borage can look quite a bit like foxglove. Borage’s leaves are not as fuzzy and the edges are more curly and textured. However, the flower stalks prior to blooming can look quite similar to that of foxglove.
Foxglove can also be mistaken for lungwort. The flowers often droop similarly and can share some of the same colorings and fuzzy stems.
One way to differentiate foxglove from other plants is the telltale spots in the flowers. Not all of them have them, so it’s still not a certainty. Some people like to grow them for their beauty, however. But, it is toxic not only to humans but to dogs and cats as well.
If someone ingests foxglove, immediately call your local poison control center or 911. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a medical professional. Enjoy the beauty of nature, but keep a sharp eye out and be safe.
Foxglove in Oregon is something to avoid. Have you had any close calls with this deadly plant? Let us know in the comments below.
If you want to learn more about Oregon’s plant life, book a stay in Portland. While you're out exploring, visit the unforgettable Hoyt Arboretum.
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/oregon/arboretum-or/
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