Verbascum epixanthinum
yellow mullein
a short-lived perennial, producing large flat, open rosettes of woolly, grey-green leaves with a rusty tinge in spring, architectural even without flowers, and sturdy, erect inflorescences to 70cm. The many yellow flowers with orange anthers open on dense spikes throughout a long season
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Grey Silver | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow | Green Grey Silver | ||
| Autumn | Green Grey Silver | |||
| Winter | Green Grey Silver |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Scrophulariaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Verbascum can be annuals, biennials, perennials or subshrubs mostly with hairy leaves and 5-petalled, saucer-shaped flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Greece
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in alkaline, poor, well-drained soil in full sun; drought-tolerant plant. In fertile soils, it grows large and needs support - see staking perennials
Propagation
Propagate by seed in pots in a cold frame in late spring to early summer. Propagate by division in early spring or autumn
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- City and courtyard gardens
- Coastal
- Gravel garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Remove faded flower spikes
Pests
May be susceptible to caterpillars and figwort weevil
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews
Get involved
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