Common Mullein

(Verbascum thapsus)

 

   

 

 

Color Photograph: Copyright Nearctica.com, Inc.

Line Drawing: Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. An Illustrated Flora of the Northern United States and Canada, Second Edition.

 

Common Mullein (Verbascum thapsus L.)

Alien: Native of Europe.

Identification: Flowers yellow, large, with 5 free petals. Flowers arranged in a very compact, cylindrical spike at the apex of the plant. Leaves found up and down the stem, but becoming larger and more numerous near the base. Leaves large, with a soft, flannel feel and appearance. Leaves elongate-ovate with their bases wrapping around the stem. Plant 2 to 6 feet in height.

Distribution: Throughout North America.

Habitat: Common Mullein is a species of disturbed habitats such as fields, empty lots, and roadsides.

Flowering period: June to September.

Similar Species: Common Mullein is a highly recognizable plant because of its velvety leafs and compact flower heads. Clasping-leaved Mullein is slightly similar, but the leaves are not velvety and the flower heads are much more open.

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