Mullein
With trademark large leaves Verbascum or as they are commonly called ‘Mullein’ plants are an unusual border or cottage garden plant.
Grown for the flowers as well as for the foliage this is a plant that is said to have a number of medicinal uses. There are a number of species are available, around 400, but only a few are available for sale online from participating nurseries.
Leaves are oblong to lanceolate the edges are lightly toothed, pale green with a fuzzy texture.
Verbascum Varieties
- Verbascum nigrum or Black Mullein with its yellow flowers is an attractive addition to the garden border.
- Verbascum chaixii, ‘Wedding Candles’ is an interesting pale lemon flowering species, reaching nearly 1m you could probably find this one in an old Edna walling garden
- Verbascum thapis is the ‘Great Mullien’,also known as Aarons Rod. Tall flower spikes to 2m in height.
- Verbascum densifolium.
Care and growing conditions
Verbascum require a sunny position to do their best. Tall growing flower spikes look fantastic in the hot dry garden border.
This is a biennial plant so it usually flowers and seeds in its second year.
In some areas Mullein can become a weed as it self seeds. Prevent this by deadheding after flowering and before seed set.
You may also be interested in
Perennial plants are available for sale from the following nurseries
Large variety of Epimediums, Woodland plants and Herbaceous perennials
Mail order or nursery. We do not send to Tasmania or WA
www.cloverhillrareplants.com
52 Rodd St Canowindra NSW 2804
An online nursery specialising in drought and frost tolerant perennials and fragrant, edible and herbs.
www.perennialle.com.au
125 Palmer Rd Jindivick 3818
Open Thursday - Sunday 10am - 4pm
Specialising in growing and selling Rare and Unusual Trees, shrubs Perennials Bulbs and Climbers, a unique nursery with amazing stock.
www.muskersbroughtonhall.com.au