perennial

Olympic Mullein

Verbascum olympicum

The Story

Plant Bio

A tall perennial known for its spikes of yellow flowers and woolly leaves.

Verbascum olympicum is notable for its striking tall flower spikes that can add vertical interest to gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Stately, silvery flower spikes add height and texture to gardens.

Drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering.

Provides nectar for bees and butterflies, supporting pollinators.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

72 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Biennial or short-lived perennial

Native To

Greece, Turkey

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring or fall.
Mist cuttings lightly to maintain soil moisture during germination.
Ensure plants receive full sun for optimal growth.
Water regularly but avoid waterlogging, especially during dry spells.
Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding, leaving 12-18 inches apart.
Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season.

Pro Tip

Sow seeds directly outdoors for best natural growth and resilience.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry periods 💧
Prune after flowering to encourage bushy growth
Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not fertilize in late fall
Never disturb roots during flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tall, silvery flower borderWildflower meadow accent

Companion Plants

EchinaceaLavender Salvia Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Olympic Mullein questions

What zones can Olympic Mullein grow in?

Olympic Mullein is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Olympic Mullein deer resistant?

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

When does Olympic Mullein bloom?

Olympic 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 Olympic Mullein need full sun?

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

Is Olympic Mullein drought tolerant?

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