Mullein
verbascum phlomoides
Also known as: ["Great Mullein","Velvet Plant"]
Overview
A tall biennial herbaceous plant with woolly leaves and tall spikes of yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus: | Verbascum |
| Botanical Name: | Verbascum phlomoides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; provide shade during extreme heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Use a cactus mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures; ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering; stop fertilizing in fall; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim back leggy stems; shape the plant as desired.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean cutting tools.
Checklist
Clean tools; remove dead or damaged growth; shape the plant; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; gently remove plant; inspect roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; frost can kill the plant.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover; move potted plants indoors; ensure good drainage to prevent cold soil.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume parts of Verbascum phlomoides. The saponins in the plant can cause discomfort but are not usually toxic in small amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Verbascum phlomoides can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins. While not typically life-threatening, it can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicVerbascum phlomoides 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:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Verbascum phlomoides toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How tall does Verbascum phlomoides grow?
A: It can grow up to 6 feet tall in its second year.
Q: Does Verbascum phlomoides attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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