Great Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a dramatic biennial wildflower known for its tall fuzzy silver foliage and towering yellow flower spikes. This rugged plant thrives in dry, sunny soil and adds structural height to native meadows, pollinator gardens, naturalized areas, and wildlife landscapes. The dense summer flowers provide nectar for bees and support beneficial insects, while the bold upright stalks create striking architecture in natural plantings.
Features
- Multi-foot tall golden flower spikes with woolly silver foliage.
- Attracts bees, beneficial insects, and other wildlife.
- Thrives in poor, rocky, and dry soils.
- Biennial growth forms a silver rosette the first year, flowers the second.
- Non-GMO Verbascum thapsus heirloom seeds.
- Ideal for meadows, wild landscapes, and ecological gardens.
Specifications
- Common Name: Great Mullein, Common Mullein
- Scientific Name: Verbascum thapsus
- Plant Type: Biennial wildflower (occasionally short-lived perennial)
- USDA Zones: 3–9
- Bloom Color: Yellow
- Bloom Season: Late spring through summer
- Height: 4–8 feet
- Spread: 12–24 inches (rosette year one)
- Foliage: Silvery, woolly, thick leaves
- Growth Habit: Rosette first year; tall flower stalk second year
- Heirloom: Yes
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Organic: Not certified organic
- Light Requirements: Full sun
- Soil Preference: Dry to average, well-drained soil
- Water Needs: Low once established
- Drought Tolerance: High
- Pollinator Friendly: Yes (attracts bees)
- Maintenance Level: Low
- Plant Spacing: 12–18 inches
- Seed Viability: 2–4 years stored cool and dry
Planting Guide
- Direct sow in fall or early spring; or cold stratify 4–6 weeks before spring planting.
- Press seeds lightly onto the soil surface; do not cover (needs light).
- Keep soil lightly moist until germination (10–30 days).
- Thin or transplant seedlings to 12–18 inches apart.
- Provide full sun for strongest stalks and best bloom height.
- Water sparingly after establishment; prefers dry soils.
- Leave spent stalks for wildlife habitat or remove to reduce reseeding.
- Once stalks dry, cut back if controlling spread is desired.
