Verbascum thapsus - common mullein and its uncommon uses

Mullein is a plant that can be found naturalized in every US state and many other places around the world. Though often seen as nothing more than a troublesome weed mullein has much to offer us. Native to Europe, northern Africa, and Asia, mullein was introduced into North America early in the 18th century as an herbal medicine. It is best to look for mullein in relatively disturbed soils, often along roads or railroad tracks. If you can spot dry stalks, it is usually possible to find plants in the area at any point during the year.



Verbascum thapsus is a biennial, which means that it lives for two years. The first year it will grow only leaves, and the second year a stalk that produces many yellow flowers. The stalks generally grow 1 - 2 meters high, though some can grow much taller. Mullein is easy to find and in the fall seeds can be collected and spread into gardens or other areas. It is also possible to transplant young plants which tend to grow close to one another. Each part of the plant has unique uses and I hope here to help others see the beauty in a plant that is often overlooked.

The plants for a future database has valuable information on mullein, as does wikipedia. Instead of repeating the information I am going to give the links and encourage everyone to read them and make time to find some mullein plants or pay closer attention to those already growing around you.

Plants For a Future - Verbascum thapsus

Wikipedia - Common mullein