Contents
Description
Verbascum Arcturus, commonly known as Arctic Mullein, is a biennial or short-lived perennial plant that is native to Europe and Asia. It belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family and is a popular garden plant due to its tall and showy spikes of yellow flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus | Verbascum |
Appearance
Verbascum Arcturus can grow up to 1.5m tall and 60cm wide. The leaves are silvery-green, densely hairy, and can grow up to 30cm long and 15cm wide. The flowers grow on tall spikes that can reach up to 2m tall, and each spike can produce up to 500 individual flowers. The flowers are yellow with purple stamens and have a sweet, honey-like fragrance.
Care Guide
Verbascum Arcturus prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It also requires full sun and moderate water. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of compost or manure can be beneficial.
Common Pests & Diseases
Verbascum Arcturus is susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. The plant is also attractive to aphids and spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Verbascum Arcturus is native to Europe and Asia, where it grows in meadows, pastures, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Verbascum Arcturus poisonous?
A: No, Verbascum Arcturus is not poisonous.
Q: Can Verbascum Arcturus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Verbascum Arcturus can be grown in large containers, but it may not grow as tall as it would in the ground.
Q: How often should I water Verbascum Arcturus?
A: Verbascum Arcturus prefers moderate water and should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry.
Q: How long do the flowers of Verbascum Arcturus last?
A: The flowers of Verbascum Arcturus can last up to 3 weeks.
Related Plants
- Verbascum Olympicum
- Verbascum Blattaria
- Verbascum Phoeniceum
- Verbascum Thapsus
References
- “Verbascum Arcturus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=262925.
- “Verbascum Arcturus (Arctic Mullein).” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/verbascum-arcturus-arctic-mullein.
- “Verbascum Arcturus.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/313728/i-Verbascum-i-Arcturus/Details.
