Mullein Verbascum 'Helen Johnson'
ABOUT
Verbascum 'Helen Johnson', commonly known as Helen Johnson mullein, is a distinctive perennial plant known for its rosette of fuzzy, silvery-green leaves which give it a soft, velvety texture. These basal leaves are elongated and slightly wavy, providing a strong visual impact even when the plant is not in bloom. Rising from the foliage clump, the plant features a towering flower spike that is densely packed with small, tubular flowers that can range in color from a soft peach to a warm copper or sometimes even a dusky pink hue. The blooms are typically arranged in a somewhat spiraling pattern up the length of the stout, sturdy stalk. Each individual flower showcases a prominent, bright orange or sometimes yellow stamen cluster that protrudes from the center, adding an extra splash of color against the muted tones of the petals. These stamens create an appealing contrast and serve to attract a variety of pollinators. The flowering spikes create a vertical aspect to the plant's form, and the rich colors tend to stand out dramatically in garden settings. Verbascum 'Helen Johnson' has an overall appearance that can be described as both rustic and graceful, making it a versatile addition to a variety of garden styles. Its foliage base combined with the impressive flower spikes provide a texture and color contrast to its surroundings, creating a focal point that draws the eye. Whether it's used in borders, cottage gardens, or as a freestanding specimen, Helen Johnson mullein offers a captivating and unique aesthetic appeal that is appreciated by many garden enthusiasts.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Scrophulariaceae
Synonyms
Mullein, Helen Johnson Mullein
Common names
Verbascum 'Helen Johnson'.
ToxicityTo humans
Mullein, which includes Verbascum 'Helen Johnson', is not commonly known to be toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, individual allergies or sensitivities could cause a reaction. In general, it is not advisable to ingest parts of ornamental plants due to potential adverse effects, which could range from gastrointestinal discomfort to more severe allergic reactions.
To pets
Mullein, such as the Verbascum 'Helen Johnson' cultivar, is not typically considered toxic to pets. However, ingestion of plant material can sometimes lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, especially if the pet is not accustomed to eating this plant. Monitoring your pet for any signs of illness after ingestion is recommended, and consult with a veterinarian if any adverse symptoms occur.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Biennials
Foliage type
Semi-deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Buff
Height
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.3 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Verbascum 'Helen Johnson' (Mullein) draws bees and butterflies, enhancing pollination in the garden.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, Mullein is tolerant of low water conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping or dry area landscaping.
- Low Maintenance: The plant typically requires minimal care once established, thriving in less fertile soils without the need for frequent watering or fertilizing.
- Ornamental Flowers: Mullein produces attractive flower spikes that add vertical interest and subtle color to garden beds and borders.
- Deer Resistant: The hairy foliage is usually unappealing to deer, making it a good choice for gardens in areas susceptible to deer browsing.
- Long Blooming Period: It has a lengthy flowering season that can extend through summer, providing visual interest for a longer time.
- Herbaceous Perennial: As a perennial, it comes back each year, reducing the need to replant annually and providing a reliable feature in a garden design.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Verbascum 'Helen Johnson', commonly known as Mullein, can be used as a dye for fabrics, yielding a range of colors from bright yellow to green depending on the mordant used.
- Mullein's soft leaves were traditionally used as insulation in shoes or clothing to retain warmth due to their woolly texture.
- The tall, sturdy stalks of Mullein can be used as makeshift torches by soaking the dried seed heads in wax or tallow.
- Some cultures have used the stalks of Mullein plants as fishing rods due to their length and flexibility.
- The fibrous material in Mullein leaves and stems can be twisted into a form of survival tinder for starting fires when dry.
- Quilters sometimes have used the velvety Mullein leaves as a natural template for tracing patterns on fabric.
- The flowers of the Mullein plant can be steeped in oil to create a natural wood polish that also repels insects.
- Mullein's dried leaves have been traditionally used to create eco-friendly packing material for fragile items.
- The sap from the Mullein plant is sticky and can be used as a natural adhesive in primitive or emergency situations.
- With its height and structure, Mullein can also be planted as a natural trellis in gardens for other vine plants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Mullein is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Mullein is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Verbascum, also known as Mullein, has been used for centuries in herbal medicine to treat various respiratory ailments, symbolizing its association with healing and health.
- Protection: Historically, Mullein was believed to ward off evil spirits and bad luck, representing protection and safety.
- Courage: With its tall, sturdy spikes of flowers, Mullein stands for courage and the ability to stand tall against adversity.
- Purity: The soft, velvet-like leaves of the Mullein plant are sometimes associated with purity and cleansing.
- Consolation: In Victorian flower language, Mullein was a symbol of comfort and consolation to those in need.
WaterHelen Johnson, commonly known as Mullein, should be watered deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which often means approximately once per week. During hot, dry periods, watering frequency might need to increase to twice per week, but always check the soil moisture first. Each watering should consist of enough water to saturate the root zone, which translates to about 1 or 2 gallons for a mature plant depending on soil conditions and climate. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's crucial to ensure that the plant is planted in well-draining soil.
LightMullein thrives in full sunlight, which means it prefers at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun daily. The best spot for this plant would be in an unobstructed area where it can receive ample sun exposure throughout the day. It's also tolerant of partial shade, but flowering may be reduced in less than full sun conditions.
TemperatureMullein is hardy and can withstand a wide temperature range, but thrives best in temperatures between 65°F and 85°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20°F and maximum temperatures up to about 90°F. Keeping the plant in this ideal temperature range will promote healthy growth and flowering.
PruningMullein should be pruned to remove spent flower spikes and encourage a second bloom. Pruning can also help maintain a tidy appearance and prevent self-seeding if not desired. The best time to prune is immediately after the first wave of flowers has faded, typically in mid to late summer.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Helen Johnson, commonly known as Mullein, should be well-draining with added grit or sand to improve drainage and aeration. A mix of loamy soil with compost and perlite or coarse sand would be suitable. The soil pH should ideally be neutral to slightly alkaline, around 6.5 to 7.5.
RepottingHelen Johnson Mullein does not need to be repotted often as it is a biennial plant and will complete its life cycle in two years. Repotting could be considered if it outgrows its container in its first year or to refresh the soil.
Humidity & MistingHelen Johnson Mullein prefers a dry to average humidity environment. It thrives in more arid conditions and does not require high humidity to grow well.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Mullein in a bright spot with some direct light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant Mullein in full sun, well-draining soil, and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Verbascum 'Helen Johnson', commonly known as Mullein 'Helen Johnson', begins with seed germination, which occurs most successfully in well-drained soil with good sunlight exposure. Following germination, the plant enters the vegetative stage, producing a rosette of fuzzy, oblong leaves close to the ground in its first year. In the second year, Mullein 'Helen Johnson' progresses to the flowering stage, where a tall spike grows from the rosette and blooms with numerous pink to salmon-colored flowers that can attract pollinators such as bees. After flowering, the plant sets seed, which involves the drying and dispersal of seeds, allowing for the propagation of the species. The life cycle may vary as some individuals can act as biennials or short-lived perennials, but most often, after seed set, the parent plant dies, completing its life cycle. New seedlings emerge from the dispersed seeds to start the cycle anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Verbascum 'Helen Johnson', commonly known as Helen Johnson Mullein, is typically propagated by seed. The best time to sow seeds is in late winter to early spring. To propagate, the tiny seeds should be scattered on the surface of a well-draining seed starting mix and lightly pressed into the soil, as they need light to germinate. It's important not to cover them with soil. Then, the container should be kept moist and in a warm place (around 65–70 degrees Fahrenheit or 18–21 degrees Celsius) until germination occurs, which usually takes about two to three weeks. Once seedlings have grown enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots and eventually moved outdoors after the risk of frost has passed.
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