Verbascum thapsus

Verbascum thapsus (also known as common mullein or great mullein) is a species of mullein in the family Scrophulariaceae. It is a biennial plant that can grow up to 2 meters tall or more. Its small, yellow flowers are densely grouped on a tall stem, which grows from a large rosette of leaves. It has a deep tap root, woolly leaves and stems, and a large amount of small seeds that persist in the soil seed bank for many years. The plant is native to Europe, northern Africa, and Asia, and is widely naturalized in North America and Australia.

Description

Verbascum thapsus is a hairy biennial plant that can grow to 2 m tall or more. Its small, yellow flowers are densely grouped on a tall stem, which grows from a large rosette of leaves. It has a deep tap root, woolly leaves and stems, and a large amount of small seeds that persist in the soil seed bank for many years.

Distribution and habitat

The plant is native to Europe, northern Africa, and Asia, and is widely naturalized in North America and Australia. It grows in a wide variety of habitats, but prefers well-lit, disturbed soils, where it can appear soon after the ground receives light, from long-lived seeds that persist in the soil seed bank.

Uses

Verbascum thapsus has been used in herbal medicine and is currently used in the manufacture of herbal teas and dietary supplements. It has also been used as a poultice for skin irritations and burns.

Cultivation

Verbascum thapsus is a low-maintenance plant that prefers full sun, and is drought-resistant. It is often grown for its ornamental value, particularly for its tall, woolly stems and bright yellow flowers.

See also

• Mullein
• Scrophulariaceae

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