Mullein
Verbascum thapsus
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Description
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a biennial herbaceous plant recognized for its tall, erect flowering spike and large, velvety leaves. In its first year, it forms a rosette of leaves, and in the second year, it sends up a flowering stalk that can reach up to 2 meters in height. Mullein is a pioneer species, often found in disturbed soils, and plays a crucial role in soil stabilization and ecological succession. It is valued in regenerative agriculture for its ability to improve soil structure and attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies. Historically, mullein has been used in traditional medicine for respiratory ailments. In an agroecological context, it serves as a companion plant in guilds, attracting pollinators and providing habitat for beneficial insects. Its large leaves can be used as a natural mulch, enhancing soil moisture retention and suppressing weeds.
Growing Details
Mullein prefers full sun and well-drained soil but can tolerate poor soil conditions. It is drought-tolerant once established. Seeds should be sown on the surface of the soil as they require light to germinate. Mullein can self-seed prolifically, so deadheading is recommended to prevent unwanted spread. Prepare soil by loosening it and adding organic matter to improve drainage. Mulching around the base can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include yarrow and echinacea, wh
Edible Parts
Leaves
Flowers
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Invasive
Meadow
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Tea
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Verbascum thapsus</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe, northern Africa, and Asia
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of Jun for 90 days
Harvest:
beginning
of August for 30 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
beginning
of March
Transplant:
beginning
of May
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(1/5)
edible uses: The flowers and leaves can be used to make herbal teas. The flowers are typically harvested in summer and can be dried for later use.
Medicinal Rating:
(5/5)
medicinal uses: Mullein is widely used in herbal medicine for its expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is commonly used to treat respiratory issues such as coughs, bronchitis, and asthma. The leaves and flowers can be prepared as infusions, tinctures, or poultices. It is important to strain teas to remove fine hairs that may cause throat irritation.
health concerns: Some individuals may experience skin irritation from handling the plant. It is recommended to strain teas made from mullein to remove fine hairs that can cause throat irritation.
other uses: The dried stalks can be used as torches, and the leaves can be used as a natural mulch. Historically, the leaves were also used as insoles for shoes.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Verbascum thapsus</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Verbascum thapsus
common names: Common mullein; Great mullein; Woolly mullein
family: Scrophulariaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Verbascum
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.5 m
spacing: 0.5 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Low
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(5/10)
first harvest: 2 years
life span: 2 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Fast
max height: 2.0 m
max width: 0.5 m
soil preference:
Poor Soil
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Mullein prefers full sun and well-drained soil but can tolerate poor soil conditions. It is drought-tolerant once established. Seeds should be sown on the surface of the soil as they require light to germinate. Mullein can self-seed prolifically, so deadheading is recommended to prevent unwanted spread. Prepare soil by loosening it and adding organic matter to improve drainage. Mulching around the base can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include yarrow and echinacea, wh
Potential Disturbances: Mullein is generally free from major pressures but can be affected by powdery mildew in humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Beneficial insects such as ladybugs can help manage any aphid challenges. Planting garlic or chives nearby can offer natural repellence.
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