Verbascum 'Clementine'

RHS Plant Profile
mullein 'Clementine'
Herbaceous Perennial

A tall, upright perennial growing up to 1.5m with large green leaves arranged in a low rosette. Spikes of pale orange flowers with purple centres are held on well-branched stems in the summer

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Scrophulariaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus
Verbascum can be annuals, biennials, perennials or subshrubs mostly with hairy leaves and 5-petalled, saucer-shaped flowers
Name Status
Accepted

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grows best in alkaline, poor, well-drained soil in full sun; drought-tolerant plant. In fertile soils, it grows large and needs support

Propagation

Propagate by root cuttings in winter

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • 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