Verbascum phlomoides

Verbascum phlomoides - Köhler–s Medizinal-Pflanzen-144 0325-caps

Verbascum phlomoides, commonly known as the orange mullein or woolly mullein, is a species of flowering plant in the family Scrophulariaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia, and has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America.

Description

Verbascum phlomoides is a biennial or short-lived perennial herb that can grow up to 2 meters tall. The plant has a rosette of large, woolly leaves at the base, which can be up to 50 cm long. The stem is erect, unbranched, and densely covered with woolly hairs. The flowers are yellow, with five petals, and are arranged in a dense, terminal spike. Each flower is about 2-3 cm in diameter.

Habitat

Verbascum phlomoides typically grows in dry, open habitats such as meadows, roadsides, and waste places. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate poor soil conditions.

Uses

The plant has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and antimicrobial properties. The leaves and flowers are often used to make herbal teas and extracts.

Cultivation

Verbascum phlomoides is relatively easy to grow from seed. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. The seeds should be sown in the spring or autumn, and the plants should be spaced about 30 cm apart.

Related Species

Verbascum phlomoides is closely related to other species in the genus Verbascum, such as Verbascum thapsus (common mullein) and Verbascum blattaria (moth mullein).

Related Pages

• Scrophulariaceae
• Verbascum
• Verbascum thapsus
• Verbascum blattaria