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 |
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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 |