Moth Mullein

verbascum blattaria

Also known as: ["Flea Mullein","Fleawort"]

Family: Scrophulariaceae Genus: Verbascum Category: Flowers

Overview

A biennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and Asia, known for its tall spikes of pale yellow or white flowers with distinctive dark purple centers.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Genus: Verbascum
Botanical Name: Verbascum blattaria

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or border, prefers slightly alkaline conditions
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate poor soils but thrives with enrichment.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: After flowering; light pruning can be done throughout the growing season to remove dead or damaged foliage.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing spent flower stalks and shaping the plant.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a houseplant.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or inadequate drainage.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing in dark corners.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-drained, moderately fertile soil

pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral, pH 6.5–7.5.

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.

Temperature

Prefers moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoid prolonged frost.

Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing when the plant is dormant; use a low-nitrogen formula for flowering plants.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a leaf node.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in moist medium.
  5. Keep humid and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70°F (21°C).

Medium

Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use sharp, sterile tools to prevent infection; maintain high humidity by covering cuttings; ensure the medium is consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Deadhead spent flowers; trim back leggy stems to encourage branching; remove any yellowing or damaged leaves.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves, clean cutting tools.

Checklist

Use clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or diseased parts; shape the plant as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter 2–3 inches wider.

Method

Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor and growth.

Checklist

Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water precisely to the root zone without wetting leaves.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures can cause leaf damage, slow growth, or death if exposed to hard freezes.

Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move potted plants indoors; use mulch to insulate roots.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering if not provided adequate water and shade.

Solution: Water deeply during heatwaves; provide partial shade; increase humidity around the plant if possible.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; water after fertilizing.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Verbascum blattaria may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as spider mites or aphids. It can also be a sign of root rot or fungal infections.

Wilting in Verbascum blattaria is often caused by water stress, either due to under or overwatering. It can also result from root damage, pest infestations, or severe disease affecting the vascular system.

Leaf spots on Verbascum blattaria are typically caused by fungal pathogens like Cercospora or Alternaria, leading to reduced photosynthesis, premature leaf drop, and weakened plant vigor.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Verbascum blattaria is commonly caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil, leading to fungal infections such as Pythium or Fusarium. This can cause plant decline and death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume parts of Verbascum blattaria. The saponins in the plant can cause discomfort but are not usually severe.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Verbascum blattaria can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins. While not typically life-threatening, it can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Verbascum blattaria contains saponins and other compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic for sensitive individuals.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consuming any parts of the plant. Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Verbascum blattaria toxic to pets?

A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.

Q: How often should Verbascum blattaria be watered?

A: It is drought tolerant and requires moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.

Q: Does Verbascum blattaria attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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