Mullein (Common Mullein, Great Mullein, Velvet Plant)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Lamiales, Family: Scrophulariaceae, Genus: Verbascum, Species: Verbascum thapsus · Scrophulariaceae (Figwort family) · Simple, deciduous biennial
Species
Verbascum thapsus
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous biennial
Family
Scrophulariaceae (Figwort family)
Shape
Obovate to oblong-lanceolate with a decurrent base
Size
Basal rosette leaves in this young specimen are approximately 2-4 inches long, while mature leaves can grow up to 12 inches or more in length.
Margin
Entire to slightly crenate
Arrangement
Basal rosette during the first year of growth
Rarity
Very Common
Color & Pattern
Pale grayish-green to silvery-green due to a dense covering of branched trichomes (hairs)
Venation Pattern
Pinnate with a prominent whitish midrib
Texture & Surface
Extremely soft, thick, and flannel-like or woolly due to dense pubescence on both surfaces
Description
This young specimen shows the characteristic first-year basal rosette of Common Mullein. The leaves form a dense, low-growing cluster pressed close to the ground, notable for their thick, woolly texture that protects the plant from intense sun and moisture loss. In its second year, it sends up a tall, rigid flowering stalk that can reach heights of up to 7 feet, terminating in a dense spike of bright yellow flowers.
Key Features
Dense felt-like or woolly hairs covering the thick, grayish-green leaves arranged in a low basal rosette, often with a decurrent leaf base running down the stem in older growth
Habitat
Disturbed soils, dry fields, pastures, roadsides, waste areas, and open rocky woods with well-drained soil and full sun
Geographic Range
Native to Europe, northern Africa, and Asia; widely naturalized throughout North America, Australia, and New Zealand
Condition Notes
The specimen appears healthy, vigorous, and in a typical first-year rosette stage with excellent coverage of protective trichomes and no apparent disease.
Interesting Facts
Historically referred to as 'Candelwick Plant' because the dried stalks dipped in suet were used as torches or candle wicks. The soft leaves were also historically used as natural insoles in shoes to keep feet warm.
Medicinal & Uses
Widely used in herbalism, particularly as an infusion or tea made from the leaves and flowers to soothe respiratory issues such as coughs, bronchitis, and sore throats. The flowers are sometimes infused in oil to treat earaches.
Ecological Role
Provides nectar and pollen for various native bees and beneficial insects. The dense seeds are a valuable food source for small birds during winter.
Similar Species
Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) has somewhat similar basal rosettes, but its leaves lack the dense, felt-like white hair of mullein and are distinctly toxic.
Foraging Tips
Look for first-year rosettes in sunny, disturbed soils along trails and roadsides. The unmistakable velvety, grey-green texture makes it very easy to identify by touch.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic. However, the tiny hairs on the leaves can be irritating to the throat if consumed without proper straining through a fine cloth, so teas are typically strained meticulously.