The Tasmanian Government is officially declaring foxglove a pest to reduce its impact on Tasmania's environmental values and agricultural productivity.
Foxglove has been grown as an ornamental plant in Tasmanian gardens for generations and it has since become naturalised and a widespread environmental weed. All parts of the plant can also be toxic to both humans and animals.
From 19 February 2025, Common foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) will be declared a pest under the Tasmanian Biosecurity Act 2019.
Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Jane Howlett, said the importation, sale and trade of all reproductive foxglove species, hybrids and cultivars will be prohibited. The declaration does not include sterile varieties.
"The management of foxglove will be targeted to designated areas, including areas within and around the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and other reserves," Minister Howlett said.
"Existing foxglove plantings in garden settings outside of designated areas are not affected by this declaration. Eradication of foxglove from all parts of the State is not feasible.
"Public consultation on the proposed changes was undertaken in 2024, and comments and submissions have been taken into consideration in the revised Foxglove (Digitalis) Biosecurity Program."
