Verbascum phoeniceum
purple mullein
a rosette-forming biennial or short-lived perennial with dark green basal leaves to 15cm long. In late spring and early summer it produces tall, airy spires of saucer-shaped, white, pink or purple flowers
Synonyms
Verbascum phoeniceum wild formVerbascum atroviolaceum
see moreCelsia rechingeri
Celsia atroviolaceae
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
AlkalineColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Pink Purple White | Green | ||
Autumn | Green | |||
Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Scrophulariaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Verbascum can be annuals, biennials, perennials or subshrubs mostly with hairy leaves and 5-petalled, saucer-shaped flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- C Europe to W Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in alkaline, poor, well-drained soil in a sunny position
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring or take root cuttings in winter
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Remove faded flower spikes
Pests
May be susceptible to caterpillars and figwort weevil
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews
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