Giant Silver Mullein

(Verbascum bombyciferum)

Giant Silver Mullein (Verbascum bombyciferum)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 16" - 40"
High Temp. 70°F - 86°F
Low Temp. 23°F - 34°F

Summary

Verbascum bombyciferum, commonly known as Giant Silver Mullein, is a biennial herb that is native to the rocky, calcareous slopes and dry areas of Turkey. It can reach a height of 5-6 feet (1.5-1.8 meters) and a width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters). This striking plant is characterized by its rosette of large, woolly, silver-gray leaves that give it a distinctive presence in the garden. In its second year, it sends up a tall flower spike with densely packed yellow blossoms that bloom in the summer, attracting bees and other pollinators.

Giant Silver Mullein is valued for its architectural form and the contrast its silvery foliage provides against green plants. It is often used in xeriscaping, as a focal point in borders, or in gravel gardens due to its drought tolerance. It thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soils, tolerating a range of soil types from sandy to loamy. While it requires little maintenance, it is important to avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. After flowering, the plant usually dies, but it can self-seed prolifically, ensuring its presence in the garden for years to come. Gardeners should be aware that in some areas, it may require control measures due to prolific self-seeding.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 5-6 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Rocky, calcareous slopes and dry areas of Turkey

Other Names

Common Names: Turkish Mullein, Broussa Mullein, Seidenhaar-Königskerze

Scientific Names: Verbascum bombyciferum

GBIF Accepted Name: Verbascum bombyciferum Boiss.