Common Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) Common Mullein (Verbascum thapsus), also called great mullein or wooly mullein, is a striking biennial wildflower native to Europe and Asia, now naturalized across North America. Known for its dramatic flower spike and soft, velvety leaves, it's a bold addition to naturalized gardens and meadows. Growing Conditions Light: Full to Part Sun Life Cycle: Biennial (Zones 4–8) Height: 2–10 feet (second year) Spread: 3 feet Bloom: Summer (second year) Deer Resistant: Yes Plant Description First year: Forms a large rosette of fuzzy, velvety silver-gray leaves (up to 20 inches long) Second year: Produces a tall, unbranched flower stalk topped with a dense spike of small yellow flowers Flowers: Open before dawn, close by mid-afternoon; bloom from bottom to top over several weeks Habitat: Thrives in disturbed soils, roadsides, meadows, and gardens Germination & Planting Sow: Direct sow in fall or start 6–8 weeks before last frost indoors Cold stratification: Not required, but a 2–4 week cold period improves germination rates Germination: 10–20 days at 65–75°F; seeds need light to germinate — do not cover Soil: Well-drained, poor to average soil; tolerates rocky or sandy conditions Spacing: 18–24 inches apart Life Cycle Biennial: Year 1 = rosette; Year 2 = flowering spike, then plant sets seed and dies Seeds are prolific and long-lived — can remain viable in soil for decades Self-sows readily for a naturalized, low-maintenance planting Uses & Benefits Pollinator support: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects Medicinal: Traditionally used for respiratory ailments and skin conditions Natural dyes: Flowers yield yellow, green, or brown dyes Drought-tolerant once established — low maintenance Wildlife habitat: Provides overwintering sites for native bees Each packet contains 100 seeds. Grown and shipped from our Maryland nursery in Maryland.What You’ll ReceiveYour order includes the seed quantity selected above, packed and labeled for planting.Arrival SupportUnpack promptly after delivery. If there is a problem with your order on arrival, contact us within 24 hours and include clear photos so we can help.Explore related products: Ornamental Seeds · Native North American selections