SafePlants

Middleton False Foxglove

Welcome to the world of the Middleton False Foxglove, a fascinating plant with a rich taxonomic history and intriguing characteristics.

Considerations for Pets

While the provided text does not explicitly mention toxicity, it does note that the Middleton False Foxglove belongs to the family Scrophulariaceae. It is always advisable to research plants within this family further if you have curious pets who might ingest plant material.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Agalinis neoscotica (Greene) Fernald
• Common Names: Middleton False Foxglove, Nova Scotia False Foxglove, Nova Scotia Agalinis, Smooth Agalinis

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Family: Scrophulariaceae (formerly), now Orobanchaceae (Figwort/Broomrape Family)
• Genus: Agalinis Raf.
• Species: Agalinis neoscotica (Greene) Fernald
• Synonyms: Middleton false foxglove (ITIS, 2010), Agalinis paupercula var. neoscotica

Distribution and Habitat

The Middleton False Foxglove is native to North America, specifically including Nova Scotia and Maine in the United States. The plant is commonly referred to as "Grardie de la Nouvelle cosse" in French-speaking regions, which reinforces its association with Nova Scotia.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Type: Forb/herb (a non-woody plant that is not a grass)
• Duration: Annual
• Flowers: Showy pink flowers
• Bloom Time: Mid-summer to mid-fall

Ecological Role

The text mentions that Agalinis species attract various insects, including honeybees, suggesting their role as a nectar source. However, no invasive traits were indicated.

Quirky Facts

• Agalinis is a genus of about 70 species in North, Central, and South America.

Fertilization

It is recommended to fertilize when implanting the plants, or every 2-3 years toward the end of winter or the beginning of Autumn.

Further Information

• USDA, NRCS. 2010. The PLANTS Database. National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA.