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Description
Verbascum Phoeniceum is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family. It is popularly known as Purple Mullein or Temptress Purple. It is native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. The plant grows up to a height of 1.5 meters and has a spread of up to 0.6 meters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus | Verbascum |
Appearance
Verbascum Phoeniceum has lance-shaped leaves that are soft to the touch and covered in fine hairs. The leaves grow up to 15 cm long and 3 cm wide. The plant has tall spikes of flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are typically purple or pink, but some varieties have white, yellow, or red flowers. Each flower has five petals and a yellow center. The plant produces a basal rosette of leaves in its first year, followed by the flowering stem in the second year.
Care Guide
Verbascum Phoeniceum requires well-drained soil and full sun exposure. The plant prefers soil that is slightly alkaline and does not tolerate waterlogged soil. It is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Verbascum Phoeniceum is generally free of pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by rust, powdery mildew, and root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent these issues, ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid overhead watering. Aphids and spider mites can occasionally infest the plant, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Verbascum Phoeniceum is native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. It prefers open woodland, meadows, and rocky slopes. The plant is commonly found in the Mediterranean region.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Verbascum Phoeniceum a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Verbascum Phoeniceum is a herbaceous perennial plant.
Q: Does Verbascum Phoeniceum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Verbascum Phoeniceum attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How tall does Verbascum Phoeniceum grow?
A: Verbascum Phoeniceum can grow up to a height of 1.5 meters.
Q: Can Verbascum Phoeniceum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Verbascum Phoeniceum can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s size.
Related Plants
- Verbascum chaixii
- Verbascum nigrum
- Verbascum thapsus
- Verbascum phlomoides
References
- “Verbascum phoeniceum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281978.
- “Verbascum phoeniceum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 15, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/178056/Verbascum-phoeniceum/Details.
