Common Mullein

Common Mullein Care

Verbascum thapsus

What is the plant

The biennial flowering plant Common Mullein has bright yellow flowers, numerous applications in traditional herbal medicine, and can be grown in containers in full sun with well-draining soil.

Verbascum thapsus is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. Great Mullein, flannel Mullein, and Common Flannel Mullein are all names for it. Look for bright yellow flowers in the summer to identify Common Mullein. It grows up to 6 ft (1.8 m) tall and grows wild along roadsides, meadows, pastures, and other habitats. It is a biennial plant, which means it has a two-year life cycle.

It has a wide range of uses. Asthma, bronchitis, and tuberculosis are just a few respiratory diseases treated with traditional herbal medicine. Earaches can be relieved with Mullein oil, and you can make a herbal tea using its leaves.

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Humidity

Normal

Lighting

Full Sun

Temperature

-10°C - 15°C

Hardiness zone

5 - 8

Difficulty

Medium

Hibernation

Cold Period

Invasive

Weed

How to Care for the Plant

Water
Mullein requires 0.8 cups of water every nine days when grown in a 4 inches (10 cm) pot and is not exposed to direct sunlight. Water regularly, but avoid over-watering, and fertilizing is not required.
Pruning
Pruning is not required because the plant grows naturally upright. However, deadheading the plant is recommended to encourage flowering and keep the plant looking tidy.
Fertilizer
Fertilizing is not required, but a regular balanced fertilizer can help keep it looking its best.

Disease diagnosis

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Sunlight
The flower prefers full sun but will tolerate some shade. Water the plant regularly, but avoid over-watering, which can cause root rot.
Soil
While it can be grown in a variety of soils, it prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
Propagation
The rootstock division is the most effective method for propagating Verbascum thapsus. It is also possible to reproduce it by seed, although it may take several years for the plant to reach full maturity if grown in this manner.

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Temperature
Common Mullein is quite hardy in terms of temperature, surviving temperatures as low as -25°F (-32°C). It will, however, thrive in warm climates if given plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil.
Container
This flower should be grown in a container with well-draining soil and full sun. It is a tough plant that can withstand drought and poor soil conditions. Water should be applied sparingly and only when the soil is arid. It is important to note that this plant can spread quickly, so keeping it in a container or controlling its growth with mulch is best.
Fun fact
Mullein leaves are fuzzy and were traditionally used to line the insides of shoes during the winter months for added warmth and comfort.