Verbascum Helen Johnson - Mullein

<strong>Also called mullein or common mullein, <a href="https://en.promessedefleurs.eu/perennials/perennials-by-variety/verbascum-mullein.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Verbascum</a> is a biennial or perennial plant that produces in summer long upright spikes made up of often yellow flowers.</strong> Verbascum also bears large leaves, sometimes with a superb silvery hue. They are downy, pubescent and very soft. Mullein flowers are usually yellow or white, but breeders have created numerous varieties in a range of colourful shades: pink, orange, purple, mauve... and even blue. With its long upright flowering stems, mullein is an imposing, highly architectural plant that adds height and structure to beds. The largest varieties can reach 2 m tall, while dwarf varieties are also available, suitable for borders or to adorn the front of a bed. <strong>Best known is <a href="https://en.promessedefleurs.eu/perennials/perennials-by-variety/verbascum-mullein/verbascum-thapsus-mullein.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Verbascum thapsus</em></a>, the true common mullein.</strong> In addition to its ornamental appeal, it has medicinal properties. It is effective against respiratory tract ailments, coughs and sore throats; the flowers are mainly used, and can be taken as a herbal tea or made into a syrup. Mullein is an undemanding plant and easy to grow. <strong>It suits dry, poor soils and thrives in full sun.</strong> It can fit into a Mediterranean-style garden, a rockery or a water-wise border. <em>Verbascum thapsus</em> may self-seed in the garden.