Species

Verbascum thapsusCommon Mullein

3 other cultivars

perennial

Jackie Mullein

Verbascum thapsus 'Jackie'

The Story

Plant Bio

A genus of flowering plants, commonly known as mulleins, typically featuring a basal rosette of leaves and tall spikes of flowers. Most are biennials or short-lived perennials native to Europe and Asia.

A compact, short-lived perennial cultivar prized for its numerous spikes of delicate, saucer-shaped, apricot-pink flowers with purple-pink stamens. Forms a low rosette of gray-green leaves.

Uses & Benefits:

Verbascum thapsus Jackie offers tall, striking yellow flower spikes that add vertical interest to gardens and attract pollinators.

Its drought tolerance makes it ideal for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.

Provides nectar for bees and butterflies, supporting local pollinator populations.

SpeciesVerbascum thapsusCommon Mullein

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

21 inches

Width

15 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Low to moderate

Lifespan

Short-lived perennial

Native To

Garden origin

Toxicity

Leaves may cause minor skin irritation; seeds are slightly toxic if ingested.

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings lightly once roots develop, usually in 4-6 weeks.
Water regularly after planting, keeping soil moist but not soggy.
Transplant seedlings when they reach 4 inches tall, after last frost.
Apply mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.

Pro Tip

Sow seeds directly outdoors for best natural growth and hardiness.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
Provide full sun for optimal flowering
Mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t plant in dense shade
Refrain from fertilizing with high nitrogen fertilizers

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silvery-foliaged borderWildflower meadow accentDry hillside accent

Companion Plants

Echinacea SalviaLavender Yarrow Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Jackie Mullein questions

What zones can Jackie Mullein grow in?

Jackie Mullein is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Jackie Mullein deer resistant?

Yes — Jackie Mullein is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Jackie Mullein bloom?

Jackie Mullein typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Jackie Mullein need full sun?

Jackie Mullein does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Jackie Mullein drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Jackie Mullein handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.