Verbascum thapsus
Common Mullein
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Common Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) - Description
Verbascum thapsus (Great or Common Mullein) is a species of mullein native to Europe, northern Africa and Asia, and introduced in the Americas and Australia. It is a hairy biennial plant that can grow to 2 metres tall or more. Its small yellow flowers are densely grouped on a tall stem, which bolts from a large rosette of leaves.
Common Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) - Blooming
Flowers in the summer with spikes of clustered, often stemless flowers that are around 1 inch across. Usually yellow in color, but sometimes come in purple, red, or white.
Common Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) - Growth
Biennials, a few annuals, perennials, and subshrubs. Does best with full sun. Foliage is covered with wooly hairs, which makes this genus of plants relatively distinct. Grows to 6 ft. tall for some species. Can become weedy especially the species V. thapsus. Grow alpine species in an alpine house to protect from winter moisture. Most Mulleins that are cultivated are hybrids. Hybrid and large species work well in a large, mixed or herbaceous border or gravel bed. Can also be naturalized in a wild or woodland garden. Smaller species like V. dumulosum and V. pestallozae make nice additions to a rock garden or alpine house.
Common Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) - Planting
Self sows freely. Propagate seeds of biennials and perennials in late spring or early summer in containers in a cold frame. Biennials planted at 55-64°F (13-18°C)may flower and die in the first year. Can also propagate perennials by division in spring, or from root cuttings in winter. Semi-ripe cuttings work for shrubby plants; take in late summer.
Common Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) - Pest
Caterpillars. Other issues include powdery mildew, and fungal leaf spots.
Common Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) - Soil and irrigation
Needs alkaline, poor, well-draining soils.








