perennial

Common Mullein

Verbascum thapsus

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

72 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Biennial

Native To

Europe and Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Verbascum thapsus, commonly known as the great mullein, is a biennial plant characterized by its tall flower spikes and dense rosettes of soft, woolly leaves. It is notable for its medicinal properties and ability to thrive in poor soils.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Verbascum thapsus adds silvery foliage and tall flower spikes, creating striking vertical accents in gardens.

Its leaves can be used in traditional herbal remedies, and it attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Provides habitat and nectar for beneficial insects, supporting local biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings or seedlings regularly to maintain soil moisture.
Allow plants to establish for 4-6 weeks before watering deeply.
Fertilize with a balanced organic fertilizer every 6 weeks during growing season.
Prune dead flowers to encourage new blooms throughout summer.
Divide mature clumps in early spring or late fall for propagation.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Apply mulch to retain soil moisture
Remove spent flowers to prolong blooming

Don't

Overwater, which can lead to root rot ❌
Allow soil to become waterlogged
Neglect to prune dead or damaged stems

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Plant
Propagate
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 rocky slope plantings

Companion Plants

Salvia Lavender Sedum Echinacea Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Common Mullein questions

What zones can Common Mullein grow in?

Common Mullein is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Common Mullein deer resistant?

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

When does Common Mullein bloom?

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

Does Common Mullein need full sun?

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

Is Common Mullein drought tolerant?

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