Mullein Verbascum 'Blue Lagoon'
ABOUT
Verbascum 'Blue Lagoon' is an intriguing plant known for its unique floral coloration. It stands out with flower spikes that boast a rare shade of blue, a color not commonly found among the Verbascum genus. These blooms are densely packed on the spike, forming an impressive display of tubular flowers that gradually open from the bottom towards the top of the spike. The flowers themselves are characterized by their five-petaled structure, with each petal featuring subtle variations in blue hues, which may range from a soft, pastel-like tone to a more vibrant azure. At the center of each blossom, you might notice the contrasting stamens, usually in a shade of purple or violet, adding an extra layer of interest to the flowers. The foliage of Verbascum 'Blue Lagoon' presents a stark contrast to its aerial blooms. The leaves are typically large, with a soft, felt-like texture, and they exhibit a silvery-green color that provides a beautiful backdrop to the striking blue flowers. These leaves form a rosette shape at the base of the plant, which is the starting point for the tall, upright flower spikes. The overall form of Verbascum 'Blue Lagoon' is one that provides vertical interest in the garden due to the erect nature of its flower spikes. When in full bloom, the plant brings a soft yet dramatic touch to any garden setting, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies due to its inviting flowers. Its beauty and unique color make it a sought-after variety for those looking to add a touch of rarity and distinction to their garden palette.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Scrophulariaceae
Synonyms
Mullein, Velvet Plant
Common names
Verbascum 'Blue Lagoon'.
ToxicityTo humans
Mullein, including the cultivar Verbascum 'Blue Lagoon', is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no widespread reports of poisoning from this plant. Therefore, ingesting parts of the Mullein is unlikely to cause significant toxic consequences in humans.
To pets
Mullein is also generally considered non-toxic to pets. There is no significant evidence to suggest that the cultivar Verbascum 'Blue Lagoon' would cause poisoning in pets. Ingesting parts of the Mullein should not be expected to result in toxic effects or symptoms of poisoning in animals.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Semi-deciduous
Color of leaves
Varies
Flower color
Blue
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.3 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Verbascum 'Blue Lagoon', commonly known as the 'Mullein', is known to attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, which are essential for pollination.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, Mullein can tolerate periods of low water, making it ideal for xeriscaping or drought-prone gardens.
- Low maintenance: Mullein requires minimal upkeep, thriving in poor soil conditions and needing little care once established.
- Architectural structure: With its tall spikes of flowers and rosette of leaves, Mullein adds height and structure to garden beds or borders.
- Seasonal interest: Mullein produces attractive flowers, typically in a shade of yellow or blue as in 'Blue Lagoon', which bloom in the summer and can add visual interest to the garden.
- Wildlife habitat: The structure of Mullein plants can provide shelter for small wildlife, enhancing the biodiversity of the garden environment.
- Long blooming period: Mullein varieties can have a long flowering period, which can last several weeks, providing a long-lasting display in the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Mulch material: Dried leaves and stems of Verbascum can be used as a mulching material to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Natural dye: The flowers of the Verbascum 'Blue Lagoon' can be used to produce a natural dye for coloring textiles or craft materials.
- Photographic subjects: The striking appearance of Verbascum makes it an excellent subject for botanical photography and garden portfolios.
- Companion planting: Verbascum can be planted among vegetables as a companion plant to attract beneficial insects such as pollinators to the garden.
- Decorative dried arrangements: The tall flower spikes of Verbascum can be dried and used in decorative arrangements or as part of a dried flower bouquet.
- Erosion control: The robust root system of Verbascum can help prevent soil erosion when planted in slopes or areas prone to erosion.
- Fire-safe landscaping: Verbascum plants are considered to be fire-resistant and can be included in fire-safe gardening practices.
- Art and craft inspiration: The form and color of Verbascum flowers provide inspiration for artists and crafters in their designs and creations.
- Culinary decoration: While not typically consumed, flowers of the Verbascum can be used as an all-natural garnish to decorate dishes and desserts.
- Hobby botany: With its unique qualities, Verbascum can be used by amateur botanists for practicing plant identification and studying plant characteristics.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Mullein is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Mullein is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Verbascum, commonly known as Mullein, is historically used for its medicinal properties, symbolizing physical and emotional healing.
- Protection: Mullein is often associated with warding off evil and negativity, offering spiritual protection.
- Courage: The plant's bold stature and ability to thrive in harsh conditions are emblematic of courage and resilience.
- Love: In some folklore, Mullein is thought to be a love charm, representing the pursuit of new relationships or the deepening of existing ones.
- Purification: Mullein's use in herbal medicine for its cleansing properties extends metaphorically to symbolize purification of the spirit or mind.
WaterMullein 'Blue Lagoon' should be watered deeply once a week, allowing water to soak the roots without leaving the soil waterlogged. During hot, dry spells, increase watering to twice per week, providing about one gallon per plant each time to maintain consistent soil moisture. Reduce watering during rainy periods to prevent overwatering. It's important not to let the soil dry out completely between waterings, as mullein thrives with even moisture. Overhead watering can leave the foliage prone to disease, so it’s best to water at the base of the plant.
LightThe Mullein 'Blue Lagoon' prefers full sun conditions, thriving with at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for this plant would be an open, unobstructed area that receives ample sunlight throughout the day. Avoid placing it in heavy shade or dark corners, as insufficient light can hinder its growth and flowering ability.
TemperatureMullein 'Blue Lagoon' is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but prefers to grow in conditions between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit. To ensure optimal growth and flowering, protect it from extreme heat and cold by providing a location that maintains its ideal temperature range.
PruningMullein 'Blue Lagoon' should be pruned to remove spent flower spikes and encourage a second bloom. Prune immediately after the first flush of flowers fades, typically in mid to late summer, cutting the flower stalk at the base. This can also prevent the plant from self-seeding excessively if not desired. Pruning is also necessary to remove any damaged or diseased foliage, maintaining the health and appearance of the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor the 'Blue Lagoon' Mullein, prepare a well-draining soil mix with loam, sand, and a small amount of compost. The ideal soil pH should be slightly alkaline, between 6.5 and 7.5.
RepottingMullein 'Blue Lagoon' is not typically repotted often as it is a biennial plant. Repot only if it outgrows its container within the two-year life span.
Humidity & MistingThe 'Blue Lagoon' Mullein prefers low to average humidity conditions and can tolerate dry air typical of most indoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun and well-drained soil for 'Blue Lagoon' Mullein indoors.
Outdoor
Plant 'Blue Lagoon' Mullein in full sun and well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleVerbascum 'Blue Lagoon', commonly known as the Mullein 'Blue Lagoon', begins its life cycle as a seed, which, when sown in well-draining soil and with adequate warmth, will germinate. The seedlings establish themselves with a basal rosette of leaves, and as the plant matures, it will develop sturdy, vertical stems. Throughout the spring and summer, the Mullein 'Blue Lagoon' produces flowering spikes adorned with saucer-shaped blue flowers that attract pollinators and are essential for the plant's reproductive phase. After pollination, the flowers give way to seed capsules that release seeds for the next generation. The plant is a short-lived perennial or biennial, which means it may complete its life cycle in two years, dying after it sets seed, or it may live longer, flowering for several seasons before eventually senescing. During its final stages, the parent plant will wither and die, having completed its life cycle, while the new seeds ensure the continuation of the species.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The Verbascum 'Blue Lagoon', commonly known as mullein, is generally propagated by seed. The best time to sow mullein seeds is either in late winter or early spring which allows for stratification through the cold winter months, a process that can break seed dormancy. To propagate, scatter the tiny seeds on the surface of a well-draining seed starting mix, barely covering them with soil as they require light to germinate. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and place the seed tray in a warm location with plenty of indirect light. Germination can take anywhere from two to three weeks at temperatures between 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 21 degrees Celsius). Once seedlings have developed true leaves and after the threat of frost has passed, they can be transplanted outdoors into well-drained soil with full sun exposure.
