Mullein Verbascum 'Letitia'
ABOUT
Verbascum 'Letitia', commonly known as Mullein, is a striking plant celebrated for its bold appearance. It features a rosette of soft, hairy basal leaves that are often green or gray-green in color. The texture of the leaves may be described as felt-like, contributing to the plant's unique feel and aesthetic. The most distinguishing feature of Mullein is its blossom spike which showcases an array of flowers. These flowers tend to be eye-catching, displaying vibrant shades of yellow with some varieties showing tints of red or white. Each bloom has a typical structure with five symmetrical petals that are often accompanied by fuzzy, stamen-like filaments, which add a delicate contrast to the boldness of the leaves. As the Mullein blooms, it becomes a magnet for pollinators; bees and butterflies are commonly seen busying themselves around the plant. The striking combination of its soft yet lush foliage, along with the stately flower spike adorned with bright flowers, makes the Verbascum 'Letitia' a prominent feature in any garden setting. Furthermore, the tactility and hue of the Mullein's foliage provide a beautiful backdrop for the flowers, creating a harmonious blend of texture and color that can evoke a sense of rustic elegance. This distinct aesthetic ensures that the Verbascum 'Letitia' holds a special place in ornamental horticulture, lending itself well to a variety of landscape themes from cottage gardens to more modern, minimalist designs.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Scrophulariaceae
Synonyms
Nettle-leaved Mullein, Purple Mullein
Common names
Verbascum 'Letitia'
ToxicityTo humans
The Mullein 'Letitia' is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, it's always possible that some individuals might be sensitive to this plant and could experience mild irritation if they handle it or ingest it, though documented cases are rare. If symptoms do occur following ingestion, they may include gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Always exercise caution and consult a medical professional if you suspect poisoning.
To pets
The Mullein 'Letitia' is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. This plant is usually considered safe, and there are no well-documented reports of significant toxicity resulting from pets ingesting Mullein. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, if consumed in large quantities or if the animal is particularly sensitive. Always monitor your pet's health and seek veterinary attention if adverse effects are observed after ingesting any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Biennials
Foliage type
Semi-deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.30 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Verbascum 'Letitia', commonly known as mullein, is known to attract bees and beneficial insects that promote pollination in the garden.
- Drought Tolerance: As a member of the mullein family, Verbascum 'Letitia' is adapted to dry conditions, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Mullein typically requires minimal care, thriving in poor soil conditions and needing little water once established.
- Architectural Interest: With its tall spikes of flowers, Verbascum 'Letitia' adds vertical interest and a striking silhouette to garden designs.
- Long Blooming Period: This plant often has a lengthy flowering period, providing color and interest in the garden for an extended time.
- Rustic Charm: Mullein's rustic appearance can complement cottage gardens and informal planting schemes.
- Aesthetic Versatility: The soft, pastel colors of Verbascum 'Letitia' flowers pair well with a variety of plants and can be used for both bold and subtle garden palettes.
- Wildlife Habitat: Verbascum 'Letitia' can serve as a habitat for various insects besides pollinators, enhancing biodiversity in gardens.
- Frost Hardy: Mullein can withstand colder temperatures, which makes it suitable for gardens in temperate regions with frosty winters.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Fabric Dye: Verbascum flowers can be used to create a natural yellow or green dye for wool and other natural fibers.
- Tinder Material: The dried leaves and stem of the Mullein can serve as excellent tinder for starting fires in survival scenarios.
- Fishing Aid: Mullein seeds are toxic to fish, making them useful for fishing by incapacitating the fish temporarily.
- Candle Wicks: The dried stems of Mullein can be dipped in wax to create natural candle wicks or torches.
- Insulation Material: The fluffy leaves and fibers of Mullein can be used for insulating material in natural building construction.
- Asbestos Substitute: The fibrous nature of the plant was historically considered as a potential substitute for asbestos in some manufacturing processes.
- Garden Companion: Mullein can attract beneficial insects to the garden, acting as a companion plant for vegetable and flower patches.
- Waterproofing Agent: The thick, waxy leaves have been used traditionally to make natural waterproof coverings in shoes or clothing.
- Protective Barrier: Mullein plants can grow tall and thick, thus they can be planted as windbreaks or privacy screens in gardens.
- Packing Material: Historically, the soft leaves were sometimes used as a shock-absorbing material for packing fragile items during transport.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Verbascum, also known as 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 often associated with its use in traditional medicine for its healing properties, particularly for respiratory issues.
- Protection: In folklore, Mullein was used to ward off evil spirits and bad luck, symbolizing spiritual and physical protection.
- Courage: The plant's tall and sturdy stalk is seen as a symbol of courage and steadfastness in facing challenges.
- Love: Some cultures use Mullein in love charms, possibly because of its soft, fuzzy leaves, which could symbolize gentleness and affection.
- Health: Given its historical use as a remedy, Mullein is often symbolic of good health and wellbeing.
WaterThe common mullein, Verbascum 'Letitia', requires watering once the top inch of soil feels dry—usually this means about one to two times per week. It's important to avoid overwatering, so you should provide enough water to moisten the soil without making it soggy. A good measure would be approximately half a gallon every week, adjusted according to the weather conditions and the plant's location. To ensure even moisture distribution, water at the base of the plant until you see excess water begin to drain from the bottom of the pot.
LightCommon mullein thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. It's best placed in a location where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Partial shade is also beneficial during the hottest parts of the day, particularly in very warm climates, to prevent scorching.
TemperatureCommon mullein prefers temperate conditions and can survive in a temperature range from around 50 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This plant will struggle in temperatures below freezing and should be protected from frost. The ideal temperature range for thriving common mullein is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPrune common mullein to remove dead or spent flowers, which encourages further blooming and prevents the plant from self-seeding excessively. The best time for pruning is immediately after the flowers fade, typically in late summer. Pruning can be done periodically throughout the growing season to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilVerbascum phoeniceum 'Letitia', commonly known as Purple Mullein, thrives in well-draining soil with a mix of loam, sand, and compost. The ideal pH for Purple Mullein is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. A mix containing 2 parts loam, 1 part sand, and 1 part compost or peat will provide the necessary nutrients and drainage.
RepottingPurple Mullein, Verbascum phoeniceum 'Letitia', does not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years. This is typically sufficient unless the plant shows signs of being root-bound or the growing medium breaks down and hinders drainage.
Humidity & MistingVerbascum phoeniceum 'Letitia', known as Purple Mullein, prefers dry to moderate humidity levels and does well in typical indoor environments without the need for increased humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow Verbascum 'Letitia' in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant Verbascum 'Letitia' in sun, well-drained soil, and space 12 inches apart.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleMullein 'Letitia' begins its life when seeds are sown in well-draining soil; these seeds germinate in warm temperatures with adequate moisture. Upon germination, seedlings emerge and develop into rosettes of foliage, staying close to the ground initially. As the plant grows, it forms a long, sturdy stem, with the rosette leaves at the base and smaller, sessile leaves along the stem. In its second year, it produces a tall flower stalk that bears the distinctive yellow to orange flowers, which are visited by pollinators such as bees. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed capsules which dry and release seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. Finally, having achieved biennial completion, the original plant typically dies, having ensured the propagation of the next generation through its seed production.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Verbascum 'Letitia', commonly known as Mullein, is by sowing seeds. Propagation by seeds is generally carried out in the spring or summer. To begin, seeds are lightly scattered on the surface of a well-draining seed starting mix, as Mullein seeds need light to germinate. They should not be covered with soil but can be gently pressed into the top layer of the medium. The container with the seeds should be kept moist and in a warm, bright area, but out of direct sunlight, until germination occurs, which typically takes 14 to 28 days. Once seedlings have emerged and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
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