perennial

Southern Charm Mullein

Verbascum thapsus 'Southern Charm'

$13.32

The Story

Plant Bio

A short-lived perennial forming a rosette of gray-green leaves from which rise tall spikes of flowers in pastel shades.

Distinctive for its unique blend of soft, pastel flower colors, including shades of apricot, cream, and dusty rose.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesTall, striking flower spikes add vertical interest and silvery foliage enhances garden texture.
Practical UsesDrought-tolerant and low-maintenance, suitable for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.
SpeciesVerbascum thapsusCommon Mullein

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Short-lived perennial

Native To

Europe and Asia (parentage)

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Marketplace

Where to Buy

<1 Gal PotBarerootTrays
In Stock$13.32
<1 Gal Pot
In Stock$15.95

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings lightly every few days to maintain humidity during propagation.
  3. Transplant seedlings when they have two sets of true leaves, about 6 weeks after germination.
  4. Water deeply once a week during the first growing season to establish roots.
  5. Thin out overcrowded plants to promote air circulation and healthy growth.
  6. Mulch around plants in late fall to protect roots from cold.

Pro Tip

Sow seeds directly in the garden for naturalized growth and better drought tolerance.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
  • Provide full sun for optimal flowering
  • Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot
  • Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
  • Apply organic compost annually

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent fungal diseases ❌
  • Don’t disturb roots during the first year
  • Refrain from fertilizing late in the season
  • Do not plant in dense shade
  • Avoid pruning in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Spring Cleanup
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silvery-foliaged border with tall flower spikesDrought-tolerant xeriscape plantingWildflower meadow accent

Companion Plants

Lavender SalviaEchinaceaCoreopsisYarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Southern Charm Mullein questions

What zones can Southern Charm Mullein grow in?

Southern Charm 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 Southern Charm Mullein deer resistant?

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

When does Southern Charm Mullein bloom?

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

Does Southern Charm Mullein need full sun?

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

Is Southern Charm Mullein drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Southern Charm Mullein with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.