Verbascum nigrum (Dark Mullein)

Verbascum nigrum (Dark Mullein) is a biennial or short-lived perennial boasting numerous stately spikes of golden-yellow flowers adorned with purple stamens. They bloom in succession over a long period extending from early summer to early fall, if deadheaded.

Verbascum nigrum (Dark Mullein) is a biennial or short-lived perennial boasting numerous stately spikes of golden-yellow flowers adorned with purple stamens. They bloom in succession over a long period extending from early summer to early fall, if deadheaded. The flower stalks rise majestically from a low-growing rosette of large, heart-shaped, semi-evergreen, dark green leaves. Easy to please, this ornamental Mullein is perfect for cottage gardens, rock gardens or wildlife gardens. While short-lived, Dark Mullein keeps its presence in the garden through reseeding and reliably comes back each summer.

  • Grows up to 2-3 ft. tall (60-90 cm) and 2 ft. wide (60 cm).
  • Enjoys full sun in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils. It is not fussy about soils, but good drainage is essential. Alkaline soils are preferred and acid soils should be avoided.
  • Provides a lovely vertical accent in the garden. Very useful and adaptable, it is well suited for cottage gardens, rock gardens, or wildlife gardens.
  • Drought tolerant, deer and rabbit resistant. It is fairly pest and disease free. Keep an eye out for mullein moth.
  • Attracts scores of pollinators, including butterflies and bees. Hungry birds happily feast on the seeds.
  • Deadhead to prevent seeding and to promote rebloom.
  • Propagate by seed.
  • Native to Europe, Asia.

Requirements

Hardiness 6
– 9

Heat Zones 6
– 9

Plant Type Annuals, Perennials
Plant Family Verbascum – Mulleins
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Early,Mid,Late)Fall
Height 2'
– 3'
(60cm
– 90cm)
Spread 1'
– 2'
(30cm
– 60cm)
Spacing 24″ (60cm)
Water Needs Low, Average
Maintenance Average
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Cut Flowers, Showy, Semi-Evergreen
Native Plants United Kingdom
Tolerance Deer, Drought
Attracts Bees, Birds, Butterflies
Garden Uses Beds and Borders
Garden Styles Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow