Verbascum lychnitis

RHS Plant Profile
white mullein
Plants for pollinators
Annual Biennial Herbaceous Perennial

A biennial or short-lived perennial forming a rosette of lance-shaped, mid-green leaves which may overwinter. In mid- to late summer produces a strongly upright, branched, flowering spike bearing yellow or white, saucer-shaped blooms

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

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

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Scrophulariaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Columnar upright, Clump forming
Genus
Verbascum can be annuals, biennials, perennials or subshrubs mostly with hairy leaves and 5-petalled, saucer-shaped flowers
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Best in poor, well-drained, alkaline soil in full sun. In fertile soils, it can grow large and need support

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Coastal
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to caterpillars and figwort weevil

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews