Black Mullein Verbascum nigrum

Names

• Family

  Scrophulariaceae

• Synonyms

  Black Mullein, Dark Mullein, Black-rooted Mullein

• Common names

  Celsia arvensis, Celsia vulgaris, Verbascum arvense, Verbascum aureum, Verbascum decurrens, Verbascum densiflorum, Verbascum lychnitis, Verbascum nigrum var. decurrens, Verbascum roripifolium, Verbascum speciosum, Verbascum wiedemannianum.

Toxicity

• To humans

  The plant known as Dark Mullein (Verbascum nigrum) is not generally considered toxic to humans. There is no widespread evidence of it causing serious poisoning when touched or ingested. However, it is important to note that while not toxic, eating or handling plants not known to be safe can sometimes cause allergic reactions or skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

• To pets

  For pets, the Dark Mullein (Verbascum nigrum) also does not have a reputation for being toxic. Similar to humans, there is no well-documented evidence suggesting that it causes significant toxicity in pets. Still, it is advisable to prevent pets from consuming any plants not specifically intended for them to avoid potential stomach upset or an unexpected allergic reaction.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Biennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Yellow

• Height

  2-3 feet (60-90 cm)

• Spread

  1-2 feet (30-60 cm)

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  5

• Native area

  Europe

General Benefits

• Attracts pollinators: Verbascum nigrum, or Dark Mullein, is known for its ability to attract bees and other pollinators to the garden, which is vital for the pollination of many plants and food crops.
• Ornamental value: With its tall spikes of yellow flowers, Dark Mullein is a striking plant that adds height and visual interest to garden borders, beds, and wildflower gardens.
• Drought tolerance: Once established, Dark Mullein is quite drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and gardens in arid environments.
• Low maintenance: It requires minimal care once established, making it an easy plant to grow for gardeners of all skill levels.
• Wildlife habitat: The plant can provide shelter and food for insects, which in turn can benefit birds and other wildlife in the garden.
• Soil improvement: As Dark Mullein grows, its root system can help to break up compacted soil, improving soil structure and fertility over time.
• Erosion control: The plant's root system can also help stabilize soil on slopes and banks, thus preventing soil erosion.

Medical Properties

• Anti-inflammatory: Verbascum nigrum has been used to reduce inflammation, particularly in the respiratory tract.
• Expectorant: It may help with the expulsion of phlegm from the airways.
• Diuretic: This plant has been said to increase urine production, possibly aiding in the detoxification of the body.
• Antibacterial: Components of Verbascum nigrum may possess antibacterial properties.
• Emollient: The plant has a soothing effect on the skin and mucous membranes.
• Astringent: It can be used topically for its astringent effects, which may help in tightening the skin and other tissues.
• Demulcent: The mucilage present in the plant can have a soothing effect on irritated tissues, particularly within the throat and digestive system.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Verbascum nigrum, commonly known as Black Mullein, can serve as a natural dye, providing colors ranging from yellow to green when used in textile dyeing processes.
• The plant has been used to create an infusion for a hair rinse, thought to darken and strengthen hair.
• The soft leaves of Black Mullein can be employed as a natural insulating material or as padding in shoes and clothing for warmth.
• With its tall stalks and attractive flowers, it is often used as an ornamental plant to enhance the aesthetic of gardens and landscapes.
• Black Mullein is sometimes planted to attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies to gardens for pollination.
• The leaves can be used as a natural tinder for starting fires due to their flammability when dry.
• It can be a component in companion planting, possibly providing benefits to certain vegetables by deterring pests when planted nearby.
• In historical contexts, the stem of Black Mullein has been utilized as a makeshift torch when dipped in tallow or another flammable substance.
• The flowers are occasionally used in the production of natural soaps and candles, contributing to their scent and color.
• The dense foliage of Black Mullein provides shelter and habitat for small wildlife, particularly in meadow or prairie environments.

Feng Shui

The Black Mullein is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Black Mullein is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Healing - Verbascum nigrum, commonly known as Dark Mullein, has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, symbolizing physical and spiritual healing.
• Protection - The herb is believed to ward off evil spirits and bad luck, representing a symbol of safeguarding and protection.
• Consolation - With its soft, furry leaves and tall flowering stalks, Dark Mullein can symbolize comfort and consolation to those in distress.
• Loneliness - The single stalk reaching upwards is sometimes seen as a symbol of isolation or loneliness.
• Health - Due to its medicinal properties, Dark Mullein is often associated with good health and well-being.