Verbascum 'Primrose Path'

RHS Plant Profile
mullein 'Primrose Path'
Herbaceous Perennial

A compact, short-lived, semi-evergreen perennial to 45cm producing a clump of downy, grey-green leaves. Spires of pale yellow flowers, 3cm across, appear in late spring and throughout the summer

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–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
Semi 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
Accepted

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in alkaline, poor, well-drained soil in a sunny position. Plants grown in fertile soil may need support, see staking perennials

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring or take root cuttings in winter

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Cut flowers

Pruning

Remove faded flower spikes

Pests

May be susceptible to caterpillars, including mullein moth, and to figwort weevils

Diseases

May be susceptible to Powdery mildews