Verbascum bombyciferum (Mullein, Nettle-leafed mullein, Turkish mullein)

Verbascum bombyciferum Photo/Illustration: Michelle Gervais



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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Verbascum bombyciferum ver-BASS-kum bom-bih-SIF-er-um Common Name: Mullein, Nettle-leafed mullein, Turkish mullein Synonyms: V. broussa Genus: Verbascum
This biennial or short-lived perennial has evergreen woolly leaves like silvery flannel that make sensuous-looking rosettes in the first year. In mid- to late summer of its second year, large sulfur-yellow blossoms open from the bottom up on flower stalks that reach up to 6 feet high. Blooming continues for many weeks. Verbascum bombyciferum has naturalized in regions of the U.S.
Noteworthy characteristics: This species is found on dry, stony hillsides and open woodlands, but is well-adapted to cottage, gravel, and rock gardens or naturalized areas. It will self-sow, but not as a nuisance.
Care: Provide well-drained soil in full sun. Verbascums tend to flop in fertile soil.
Propagation: Sow seeds directly in the garden in spring or in containers under a cold frame. Divide in spring.
Problems: Powdery mildew and other fungal leaf spots. Caterpillars.
Height 3 ft. to 6 ft.
Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Growth Habit Clumps
Growth Pace Moderate Grower
Light Full Sun Only
Moisture Medium Moisture
Maintenance Low
Tolerance Deer Tolerant;Drought Tolerant;Frost Tolerant
Characteristics Self Seeds; Showy Flowers; Showy Foliage
Bloom Time Late Summer; Summer
Foliage Color Evergreen;Silver/Grey
Flower Color Yellow Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Naturalizing, Roadside
Style Cottage Garden
Seasonal Interest Spring Interest, Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type Perennials

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