Mullein Verbascum 'Patricia'
ABOUT
Verbascum 'Patricia' is a charismatic perennial known for its rosette of large, velvety leaves that are silvery-green in color. This basal arrangement of foliage sets the stage for the impressive floral display that follows. The leaves are slightly wavy on the edges and can be quite substantial in size, providing an attractive ground cover even when the plant is not in bloom. The most striking feature of Verbascum 'Patricia' is its flowering stalks, which produce a dense spike of vibrant flowers. These blooms are typically a bright, sunny yellow with a soft, inviting glow. Each flower is simple yet charming, having five petals that are slightly ruffled at the edges and arrayed around a central stamen with a noticeable filament and anthers. These yellow petals may occasionally carry subtle orange or red throbbing at their base, adding depth and complexity to the overall floral presentation. The flowering spikes of this plant are sturdy and rise vertically, forming an erect centerpiece above the cushioning foliage. Blossoms are closely packed along the stem, creating an elongated inflorescence that is visually appealing from a distance and equally mesmerizing up close. Overall, Verbascum 'Patricia' has a rich textural and color contrast between its soft, woolly leaves and the brighter, cheerful tones of its flowers. It exudes a wild yet refined beauty, with a natural elegance that can enhance any garden setting where it's planted.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Mullein, Velvet Plant.
Common names
Verbascum 'Patricia'
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Verbascum 'Patricia' is Mullein. Most mullein species are not known to be toxic to humans. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities may exist. If ingested in large quantities, some people might experience stomach upset or irritation. If someone has a known allergy to Mullein, ingesting it could lead to allergic reactions such as skin rashes or respiratory issues. It's always wise to avoid eating or using any part of a plant for medicinal purposes without proper knowledge or guidance from a healthcare provider.
To pets
For Mullein, there is no widely recognized toxicity to pets such as cats and dogs. It's generally considered a safe plant and is even sometimes used as a natural remedy for certain ailments. However, as with any non-food plant, if a pet consumes a large amount of Mullein, there may be potential for gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea. As always, it is prudent to monitor your pets around plants and discourage them from eating ornamental flora. If you suspect your pet has consumed a questionable amount of any plant and is showing adverse symptoms, seek veterinary care.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Varies
Flower color
Yellow
Height
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Spread
18 inches (0.46 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Verbascum 'Patricia' produces flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it can thrive with minimal watering, making it suitable for xeriscaping and water-conservation gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Requires little care beyond the occasional pruning to keep it looking tidy and encourage more blooms.
- Adaptable: Can grow in a range of soil types, from heavy clay to sandy soils, as long it is well-draining.
- Sun Loving: This plant thrives in full sun, making it ideal for sunny borders, beds, and open landscapes.
- Long Blooming Season: Offers a long flowering period from early to late summer, providing color for an extended time.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds visual interest to the garden with its tall, elegant spikes of flowers and attractive rosette of leaves.
- Deer Resistant: The plant is not a favorite choice for deer, which helps to prevent it from being eaten in areas with deer populations.
- Frost Hardy: It can withstand light frosts, making it a robust choice for gardens in temperate climates.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Verbascum species have been used traditionally to reduce inflammation.
- Expectorant: The plant has been used to help loosen phlegm and ease coughs.
- Demulcent: Verbascum can soothe irritated mucous membranes in the throat.
- Antibacterial: Some components of Verbascum have shown antibacterial properties in studies.
- Antiviral: Verbascum has been used traditionally to treat respiratory viral infections.
- Diuretic: Traditionally used to increase urine production and relieve edema.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Mullein 'Patricia' can be used as a natural dye, giving wool and fabrics a range of yellow to green shades, depending on the mordant used.
- The soft leaves have been historically used as insulation in footwear to keep feet warm due to their thick, felt-like texture.
- In the garden, Mullein 'Patricia' can act as a deterrent for deer and other animals who generally avoid its fuzzy leaves and tall structure.
- This plant can be used in floral arrangements, where the tall spires of blooms add vertical interest to bouquets.
- The Mullein 'Patricia's stalk can be dried and used as a spindle for hand spinning wool or other fibers due to its sturdy yet lightweight nature.
- The dried seed pods and stalks can also be used in craft projects to create natural decorative elements.
- As a companion plant, Mullein 'Patricia' attracts beneficial insects like bees and hoverflies, which are important pollinators for gardens.
- Photographers and artists sometimes use the architectural form of Mullein 'Patricia' as a subject or background in their works because of its striking appearance.
- During historical times, the Mullein 'Patricia's stalks could be dipped in suet or wax and used as torches.
- In nature education, Mullein 'Patricia' can be used as an example of a plant that thrives in disturbed soils, teaching about plant succession and habitat recovery.
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, has been used in traditional herbal medicine to treat various ailments, symbolizing health and healing.
- Protection: Historically, Mullein was believed to ward off evil spirits and bad luck, representing spiritual and physical protection.
- Courage: The sturdy stalk of Mullein stands tall and straight, which can be seen as a symbol of courage and resilience.
- Calm: With its soft, velvety leaves and calming presence in herbal teas, Mullein is often associated with tranquility and calmness.
- Consolation: Because it's known for its healing properties, Mullein can symbolize comfort and consolation in times of illness or sorrow.
WaterThe Verbascum 'Patricia', commonly known as Mullein 'Patricia', requires moderate watering. During the growing season in spring and summer, water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, approximately once a week, using about a gallon of water each time, depending on the size and the environmental conditions. Reduce watering in the fall and winter to every other week or less, as the plant enters a dormant period and requires less moisture. Do not allow the plant to sit in waterlogged soil as this can lead to root rot; ensure proper drainage is in place.
LightMullein 'Patricia' thrives best in full sunlight conditions. The ideal spot for this plant is in an area where it can receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. Ensure the plant is placed in a location without any shading from trees or buildings to maximize light exposure.
TemperatureThe Mullein 'Patricia' can tolerate a broad range of temperatures but prefers a climate that ranges between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It is winter hardy to USDA zones 5 to 9 and can handle temperatures down to about -20 degrees Fahrenheit. However, prolonged exposure to temperatures below freezing will require protection.
PruningPruning Mullein 'Patricia' is important to remove spent flowers and encourage reblooming. Deadhead the flower stalks once they have finished blooming to promote a second flush of flowers. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged foliage and shape the plant as necessary. This pruning should be done annually to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Verbascum 'Mullein', a well-drained soil mix is crucial. A combination of loam, sand, and a small amount of compost works well. The ideal soil pH for Mullein is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.4 to 6.8.
RepottingMullein plants generally have a biennial life cycle and may not require frequent repotting. However, if growth is vigorous or the plant becomes root-bound, repot it every 1-2 years in spring.
Humidity & MistingMullein prefers a dry climate and is tolerant of low humidity conditions, making it well-suited to typical indoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light and ensure good air flow.
Outdoor
In full sun, well-drained soil, space 18" apart.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleVerbascum 'Patricia', commonly known as "Mullein", begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in spring when soil temperatures warm up. The seedlings develop into a rosette of leaves during their first year, focusing on establishing a strong root system. In its second year, Mullein sends up a tall flowering stalk, which can reach up to 2 meters in height, and produces yellow flowers that are arranged in a dense spike. These flowers attract a variety of pollinators, especially bees, which help in the cross-pollination process. After flowering, typically from June to August, the plant sets seed, and the seed capsules mature, releasing numerous tiny seeds into the surrounding environment. The parent plant usually dies after seed production, completing the biennial life cycle, although some individuals may persist for another season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method for propagating Verbascum 'Patricia', commonly known as Mullein, is through seed sowing. Seeds can be sown either directly outdoors in the spring after the danger of frost has passed or started indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost date. To ensure a good germination rate, sprinkle the tiny seeds onto the surface of well-draining soil mix and lightly press them in, as they need light to germinate. Maintain moisture but avoid waterlogged conditions by lightly misting the soil surface. The ideal temperature for germination is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius). Seedlings can be transplanted to their final location once they have a couple of sets of true leaves and are robust enough to handle the outdoor conditions.
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