White Mullein (Verbascum lychnitis)

White Mullein

Verbascum lychnitis

Its woolly leaves glow softly in sun, a quiet meadow sentinel. Biennial herbaceous plant; common name: White Mullein.

Full sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, exposed meadow or rock garden conditions
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Watering Water deeply but infrequently; highly drought-tolerant once fully established
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; withstands hot, dry summer temperatures without supplemental cooling
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal rosette of woolly, oblong leaves; stem leaves smaller, clasping
  • Flower: Dense spikes of creamy-white, five-petaled flowers
  • Stem: Erect, unbranched, covered in grayish-white downy hairs
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Care Guide

Watering

Water occasionally during prolonged dry spells to support flower spike development

Fertilization

No regular fertilization needed; thrives in low-nutrient soil. Excess fertilizer may reduce flower production and increase foliage growth

Composted eggshell powder:Sprinkle a thin layer around the base of rosettes in early spring; avoid direct contact with foliage to prevent potential burning
Pruning
  • Remove spent flower spikes after blooming to prevent unwanted self-seeding if desired
  • Cut back dead foliage to ground level in late winter to clear space for new spring growth
  • Thin overcrowded basal rosettes in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported toxic reactions

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental wildflower; traditional medicinal uses for mild respiratory ailments