Hoary Mullein

(Verbascum pulverulentum)

Hoary Mullein (Verbascum pulverulentum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Verbascum pulverulentum, commonly known as hoary mullein or broad-leaf mullein, is a biennial or short-lived perennial herb native to a variety of habitats in central and southern Europe, including open woodlands, grasslands, and disturbed areas, but not exclusively coastal. It has been introduced to regions such as Austria, Madeira, and Washington state in the US. Typically, it reaches heights of 30-100 cm, with a rosette of large, woolly, gray-green leaves and a tall spike of yellow flowers that bloom in the second year. The flowers, which appear in summer, are not particularly showy but are attractive to a range of pollinators.

Hoary mullein is valued for its striking foliage texture and its ability to thrive in poor, disturbed soils, making it a useful plant for restoration projects and naturalistic plantings. It is often found in gravel gardens, wildlife gardens, and as part of mixed herbaceous borders. It prefers full sun to light shade and requires well-drained soil. While generally low-maintenance, it can self-seed prolifically under favorable conditions, which may be considered invasive in some areas.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1.75-2.5 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Border Plant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands, grasslands, and disturbed areas

Other Names

Common Names: Hoary Mullein, Violetstamen Mullein

Scientific Names: , Verbascum pulverulentum, Lychnitis pulverulenta, Thapsus floccosum, Thapsus pulverulentum, Verbascum acutifolium, Verbascum farinosum, Verbascum farinosum, Verbascum floccosum, Verbascum floccosum f. manlevense

GBIF Accepted Name: