The mullein, which belongs to the Verbascum genus, is popularly known as wool flower due to its velvety soft, finely hairy leaves or as weather candle due to its characteristic shape. If you pay attention to a few things when planting the mullein, the care of these plants is relatively easy.

The mullein should be planted in a location that is as sunny as possible

How does the mullein grow as a plant?

Many types of mullein are biennial or perennial and after sowing only form the up to two meter high inflorescences in the second year. The candle-shaped inflorescences are covered all around with a large number of small individual flowers, which are yellow in the wild form, but sometimes also violet, pink or blue.

Which location should you choose for the mullein?

Although the mullein can also thrive in semi-shade in sheltered locations, a location that is as full and warm as possible is generally recommended. Dryness due to solar radiation is usually not a problem for the mullein, it also survives dry periods without artificial irrigation.

Can mullein be grown from seed?

If you do not leave the propagation work to the mulleins with the uncomplicated self-sowing anyway, you can also prefer young plants from the seeds in a plant pot or a plant box. But pay attention to:

  • using the freshest seed possible
  • press the plants only lightly into the substrate
  • to keep the seed soil moderately moist

Which propagation methods are recommended for the mullein?

In addition to propagation via seeds, the formation of root cuttings can also be considered for the mullein. This propagation method is particularly advisable for the propagation of true-variety young plants from hybrid varieties.

When is the flowering period of the mullein?

The mullein blooms in most regions of Central Europe from July to August, but sometimes also into September. Since the individual blossoms on the candle-shaped stem open gradually, the flowering period is relatively long, lasting several weeks.

At what distance should mulleins be planted?

After growing on the windowsill from February, the young mulleins can be planted in the garden bed as soon as at least four pairs of leaves have formed. A minimum distance of about 50 centimeters should be maintained between the individual mulleins.

tips and tricks

Once settled in the garden, mulleins often choose a favorite place in the garden by themselves and by self-sowing. This can often be on a gravel roadside or on the edge of a stone wall.

Category:

Herbs