Chinese foxglove
Rehmannia glutinosa
Di Huang
About this plant
Rehmannia glutinosa, commonly known as Chinese foxglove, is a perennial herb prized in traditional medicine. It has attractive green leaves and produces pale purple to violet tubular flowers. The plant is valued for its medicinal roots and is often grown in gardens for both its beauty and health uses.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Rehmannia
- Family
- Orobanchaceae
- Higher classification
- Lamiales
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- China, East Asia
- Distribution
- Native to China and widely cultivated in East Asia, also grown in botanical gardens worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial shade
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, North-facing, Northeast-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -10 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 6-9
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, rich in organic matter
Watering. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season to support healthy growth.
Rehmannia glutinosa is a hardy perennial that prefers partial shade and well-drained soil. It needs moderate watering and benefits from occasional fertilizing during the growing season. It is generally low-maintenance but can suffer if overwatered or grown in full sun.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Division
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Attractive green foliage with tubular pale purple flowers that bloom in summer.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets; safe to grow around children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Rehmannia glutinosa is generally safe and not known to cause allergies. However, people with sensitive skin should handle the plant gently to avoid mild irritation. There is no significant pollen allergy risk.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot, and too much direct sunlight may scorch the leaves. Pests are uncommon but watch for aphids or fungal issues in humid conditions.
Uses
Primarily grown for ornamental purposes and traditional medicinal uses, especially its roots.
Notes
Prune dead or damaged leaves to encourage new growth. Repot every 2-3 years if grown in containers. Avoid waterlogged soil to prevent root diseases.