Mullein 'Raspberry Ripple' Verbascum 'Raspberry Ripple'

Water

Mullein 'Raspberry Ripple', commonly known as Garden Mullein, prefers soil that is dry to medium in moisture and well-drained. Water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out somewhat between waterings. During hot, dry periods, additional water may be necessary, but avoid overwatering as this plant is drought-tolerant. Typically, applying about 1 gallon of water per plant each week will suffice, adjusting for rainfall, as the plant is established best in conditions that mimic its native habitat.

Light

Garden Mullein thrives in full sun exposure, where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for 'Raspberry Ripple' would be an open area with unfiltered sunlight, away from large trees or buildings that could create significant shade. Adequate sun will encourage the strongest growth and best flowering performance.

Temperature

The Garden Mullein 'Raspberry Ripple' can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best between 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. While it can survive minimum temperatures down to about 15 degrees Fahrenheit, extremely cold weather may damage the plant. Ideal growth occurs in a temperate environment without prolonged exposure to temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit or below freezing.

Pruning

Garden Mullein benefits from occasional pruning to remove spent flower spikes and promote a second bloom. Prune 'Raspberry Ripple' immediately after the initial flowering, cutting back the flower stalks to the base of the plant. Additionally, deadheading throughout the blooming season helps encourage more flowers. The best time for major pruning is late winter to early spring, before the onset of new growth.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

For the Mullein 'Raspberry Ripple', a well-draining soil mix is crucial. A combination of equal parts loam, peat, and sand or perlite works well to ensure proper drainage. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, aiming for 6.0 to 7.0. Regularly amending the soil with organic matter can help maintain the ideal structure and fertility.

Repotting

Mullein 'Raspberry Ripple' generally does not need frequent repotting. It is typically repotted once every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container. Care should be taken to disturb the roots as little as possible during the process.

Humidity & Misting

Mullein 'Raspberry Ripple' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does well in average room humidity. It does not require high humidity and can adapt to the humidity levels typically found in outdoor environments without any special adjustments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright, indirect light and good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun to light shade in well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

Raspberry Ripple mullein (Verbascum 'Raspberry Ripple') begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates when conditions are appropriate, usually in spring or early summer. The plant starts as a rosette of leaves close to the ground, where it undergoes vegetative growth. In its second year, Raspberry Ripple mullein produces a tall flowering stalk that can reach up to 6 feet, which is adorned with pink and white flowers from early to late summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After blooming, the flowers are replaced by seed capsules that mature and release seeds. The plant completes its life cycle by dying after seed dispersal, as it is a biennial species. Those seeds will lie dormant until conditions are favorable for the next generation to start the cycle anew.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early summer

• The Verbascum 'Raspberry Ripple', commonly known as Mullein, can be propagated primarily through seed. Sowing seeds can be done in late winter or early spring, in trays or pots using a well-draining seed-starting mix. Scatter the seeds over the surface and lightly press them into the mix, as they need light to germinate. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination usually occurs within 2 to 3 weeks at temperatures around 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 21 degrees Celsius). Thin the seedlings once they develop true leaves, and transplant them to their final location when they are large enough to handle and the risk of frost has passed.