Soft Woolly Foliage
Develops large, broad leaves covered with fine, soft hairs that create a distinctive silver-green appearance.
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Woolly Mullein, scientifically known as Verbascum thapsus, is a distinctive biennial flowering plant recognized for its large, soft, woolly leaves and tall spikes of yellow flowers. During its first year, the plant develops a low-growing rosette of silvery-green foliage. In its second year, it produces a tall flowering stalk that adds vertical interest to outdoor gardens, wildflower areas, and naturalized landscapes. Woolly Mullein grows well in sunny locations with well-drained soil and is adapted to a range of growing conditions.
Develops large, broad leaves covered with fine, soft hairs that create a distinctive silver-green appearance.
Produces an upright flowering stalk covered with small, five-petaled yellow flowers during its second year.
Forms a leafy basal rosette in the first year before developing its tall flowering stem in the second year.
Grows in sunny outdoor locations with well-drained soil, including sandy, gravelly, and relatively poor soils.
| Scientific Name | Verbascum thapsus |
| Common Name | Woolly Mullein; Common Mullein; Great Mullein; Flannel Mullein |
| Plant Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Seed Type | Flower Seeds / Wildflower Seeds |
| Plant Type | Biennial Herbaceous Flowering Plant |
| Growth Habit | First-year basal rosette followed by an upright flowering stalk in the second year |
| Flower Color | Yellow |
| Foliage Color | Silvery-green to pale gray-green |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | Approximately 3–9, depending on local climate and growing conditions |
| Planting Season | Spring or fall |
| Growing Season | First-year foliage growth followed by second-year flowering |
| Sowing Season | Spring to fall, depending on local climate |
| Sowing Months | March to June or September to October, depending on region |
| Seed Planting Depth | Surface sowing; press seeds gently into the soil without covering deeply |
| Germination Time | Variable; depends on temperature, light, and seed conditions |
| Germination Temperature | Warm conditions around 20–30°C (68–86°F) can support germination |
| Sunlight Requirements | Full sun, approximately 6 or more hours of direct sunlight daily |
| Soil Requirements | Well-drained sandy, gravelly, or moderately fertile soil |
| Soil pH | Slightly acidic to neutral or mildly alkaline soil |
| Watering | Keep the soil lightly moist during germination; established plants tolerate relatively dry conditions |
| Mature Plant Height | Approximately 3–7 feet, sometimes taller in favorable conditions |
| Mature Plant Spread | Approximately 2–3 feet, depending on growing conditions |
| Flowering Period | Usually summer during the second year |
| Propagation | Seeds |
| Garden Uses | Wildflower areas, cottage gardens, naturalized landscapes, and sunny borders |
Woolly Mullein brings unusual foliage texture and tall yellow flower spikes to sunny outdoor spaces. Its two-year growth cycle, silvery-green rosette, and upright flowering habit make it recognizable in wildflower and naturalized garden settings. Sow Woolly Mullein Seeds in a suitable open location with good drainage and plenty of sunlight. Check local regulations before planting because this species is considered invasive or noxious in some parts of the United States.
Find answers to common questions about Woolly Mullein seed germination, its two-year growth cycle, and flowering characteristics.
Yes. Woolly Mullein seeds generally germinate more successfully when exposed to light. Scatter the tiny seeds on the surface of moist, well-drained soil and press them gently without covering them deeply. Provide suitable warmth and consistent surface moisture while waiting for seedlings to emerge.
Woolly Mullein is a biennial plant with a natural two-year growth cycle. During the first year, it develops a basal rosette of large, woolly leaves and establishes its root system. During the second year, it produces a tall flowering stalk with yellow flowers, followed by seed capsules. The plant generally dies after completing its flowering and seed-producing cycle.
Woolly Mullein commonly grows around 3–7 feet tall, although some plants can grow taller under favorable conditions. Its tall flowering stalk usually develops during the second year, producing numerous small, five-petaled yellow flowers along the upper stem. Flowering generally occurs during summer, with timing depending on the local climate.