Mullein Verbascum 'Brookside'

Water

For the common mullein, which is the most common name for Verbascum 'Brookside', ensure the plant receives deep watering less frequently rather than shallow watering more often to encourage a strong root system. Allow the top inch of the soil to dry out between waterings, and then water thoroughly until excess water drains out. In the growing season, this might translate to approximately every 7 to 10 days, but always adjust according to weather conditions—more frequent waterings during hot, dry periods and less during cool, damp periods. A good rule of thumb is to provide about one to two gallons per plant during each watering session, ensuring you're reaching the deeper roots without overwatering.

Light

The common mullein thrives in full sun conditions, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering. It’s best to place the plant in a spot where it can receive the early morning and afternoon sun without any shade interference. Partial shade is acceptable but may result in fewer flowers and less vigorous growth.

Temperature

Common mullein prefers temperate conditions and can survive winters in areas where temperatures do not typically drop below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Its ideal growing range is between 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, with growth slowing down significantly if the temperature rises above 90 degrees Fahrenheit or falls below the survival threshold. The plant is quite hardy but may require protection or mulching if exposed to extreme cold conditions.

Pruning

Pruning the common mullein involves deadheading spent flowers to encourage additional blooming and to prevent self-seeding if not desired. It's also beneficial to remove any damaged or diseased foliage to maintain plant health. Pruning should be done after the first flush of flowers has faded, usually in the mid to late summer. If the plant becomes too large or woody, it can be cut back in the late fall or early spring.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Mullein, commonly known as Verbascum 'Brookside', thrives best in well-draining, moderately fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. A mix composed of two parts loam, one part sand or perlite, and one part compost or well-rotted manure will provide a balanced structure that promotes healthy growth. Sufficient drainage prevents root rot and supports the mullein's preference for drier conditions.

Repotting

Mullein, known as Verbascum 'Brookside', generally does not require frequent repotting and should be repotted every 2 to 3 years. The best time to repot is during the spring, and it's important to move the plant to a slightly larger container with fresh, well-draining soil mix to promote healthy growth.

Humidity & Misting

Mullein, or Verbascum 'Brookside', is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels but prefers dryer air typical of its natural habitat. It does not have high humidity requirements, making it suitable for most indoor environments without the need for additional humidity control.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and water sparingly.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, water moderately, protect from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Brookside Mullein or Verbascum 'Brookside', begins its life as a seed, which germinates in warm soil with adequate sunlight and moisture, emerging as a seedling with characteristic fuzzy leaves. It then develops into a rosette of leaves staying close to the ground during its first year, in a vegetative state, typically as a biennial. In its second year, the plant elongates to produce a tall flowering stalk, with flowers that are usually yellow, blooming in succession up the stalk throughout the summer. After the flowering period, seeds are produced and dispersed from the dried flowers, ensuring the next generation of plants. Following seed dispersal, the Brookside Mullein completes its life cycle and typically dies, having reached the end of its biennial life span. Some plants can behave as short-lived perennials, depending on environmental conditions, and may re-sprout from the base to flower in subsequent years before eventually dying.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early spring

• The most popular method of propagating the Verbascum 'Brookside', commonly known as Mullein, is through seed sowing. Seeds can be sown in late winter to early spring, typically indoors to protect them from the cold. Once sown lightly on the surface of a well-draining seed starting mix, they need exposure to light to germinate, which usually takes about two to three weeks at a temperature of 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 18 to 21 degrees Celsius). The seedlings should be kept moist but not waterlogged. When they have grown strong enough and the threat of frost has passed, the young plants can be transplanted outside into a sunny location with well-draining soil. This method is favored for its simplicity and effectiveness in producing new plants that are true to the parent’s characteristics.