Digitalis canariensis L.

Growth Form and Size

Digitalis canariensis L. is a species of small evergreen plants that grow into rounded shrubs reaching up to 150 cm in height.

Leaf Morphology

Its leaves are lanceolate-ovoid with toothed margins, arranged in a spiral pattern along stems.

Inflorescence Characteristics

The inflorescence is a cluster of orange-reddish flowers each up to 3 cm long.

Flower Structure

These flowers have short petals and distinct upper and lower lips.

Pollination

This species has been documented to be bird-pollinated by island populations of Phylloscopus species.

Fruit Type

It produces a capsule as its fruit.

Toxic Compounds

Digitalis canariensis contains cardenolides, also known as cardiac glycosides, which are toxic.

Medical Use History

Documented medical use for this species is primarily historical.

Endemic Distribution

Digitalis canariensis is endemic to the Canary Islands, where it grows on the islands of Tenerife, La Gomera, and La Palma.

Habitat

It can be found growing in laurel forests and Erica arborea woods.