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Previous Volume 332:1386 May 18, 1995 Number 20 Next

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To the Editor: Naiman's magnificent photograph of Digitalis purpurea (Dec. 8 issue)¹ illustrates the derivation of its common name: because of its color and resemblance to fingers, it was called foxglove by the botanist Leonhard Fuchs in 1542. William Withering first used the foxglove in 1775, but his classic account was published 10 years later.²

Frank J. Lepreau, M.D.
74 River Rd.
Westport, MA 02790

References

1. Naiman JL. Digitalis purpurea (Foxglove). N Engl J Med 1994;331:1563-1563. [Free Full Text]
2. Withering W. An account of the foxglove and some of its medical uses: with practical remarks on dropsy, and other diseases. London: G.G.J. and J. Robinson, 1785.

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