Species

Verbascum chaixiiMullein

1 other cultivar

‘Wedding Candles’Wedding Candles Mullein

perennial

White Nettle-leaved Mullein

Verbascum chaixii 'Album'

The Story

Plant Bio

Verbascum chaxii 'Album' is a biennial or short-lived perennial plant distinguished by its tall, erect flowering spikes and soft, silvery-green basal rosettes of foliage, bearing large, pale yellow to white flowers.

This cultivar is notable for its striking white flowers that create a luminous display, especially when in full bloom, and its adaptability to poor soils and drought conditions.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides tall, striking yellow flowers that add height and color to gardens.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-wise landscapes.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing garden biodiversity.

SpeciesVerbascum chaixiiMullein

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 garden humidity

Lifespan

Short-lived perennial

Native To

Europe

Toxicity

Seeds are toxic; foliage may cause skin irritation

Bloom period

Late spring – Late summer

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
Keep soil consistently moist until germination, about 2 weeks.
Place in full sun for optimal flowering.
Water sparingly once established, drought tolerant.
Fertilize lightly in early spring with balanced fertilizer.
Divide every 3–4 years in early spring to maintain vigor.

Pro Tip

Sow seeds directly outdoors for best naturalization and flowering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during prolonged dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to maintain shape
Mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
Avoid heavy fertilization which can reduce flowering
Don’t 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

Xeriscape featureDry border plantWildflower garden accent

Companion Plants

EchinaceaLavender SalviaYarrow Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

White Nettle-leaved Mullein questions

What zones can White Nettle-leaved Mullein grow in?

White Nettle-leaved 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 White Nettle-leaved Mullein deer resistant?

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

When does White Nettle-leaved Mullein bloom?

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

Does White Nettle-leaved Mullein need full sun?

White Nettle-leaved Mullein does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is White Nettle-leaved Mullein drought tolerant?

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