Category Archives: List 6

Verbascum thaspus, common mullein

Family: Plantaginaceae

Description:

This biennial is characterized by grey basal rosette comprised of large, hairy leaves. Yellow flowers emerge in the second year on tall, dense spikes. Flowers emerge at random. After leaves and flowers drop, Verbascum thaspus will maintain its structure and fruits usually persist over the winter. It will prolifically produce seeds, making this weedy in warmer regions.

Growing conditions:

This species grows best in sandy or gravely soil, in open sunny locations. It often emerges in disturbed sites, such as roadsides or forest clearings.

Suitable uses:

This can be a useful addition for a statuesque, architectural presence, creating vertical structure in the landscape. It can be used on sites that have a low maintenance and water regime.

CC Image courtesy of Per on Flickr

CC Image courtesy of MarySloA on Flickr