Contents
Description
Verbascum Speciosum, also known as purple mullein, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family. It is native to the mountains of Turkey and Iran, but is now widely cultivated in gardens around the world. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and produces a tall, erect stem with large, showy flowers. The flowers are a deep shade of purple and bloom from late spring to early summer. The leaves of Verbascum Speciosum are soft and velvety to the touch, and are arranged in a rosette at the base of the stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus | Verbascum |
Appearance
Verbascum Speciosum is a striking plant that adds a pop of color to any garden. The plant produces a tall, erect stem that can grow up to 6 feet tall. At the top of the stem, large, showy flowers bloom in a deep shade of purple. The flowers are arranged in a spike and can grow up to 2 feet long. The leaves of Verbascum Speciosum are soft and velvety to the touch, and are arranged in a rosette at the base of the stem. The leaves are oblong in shape and can grow up to 10 inches long. The plant also produces a taproot that can grow up to 3 feet deep.
Care Guide
Verbascum Speciosum is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this beautiful plant:- Water: Verbascum Speciosum prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often if the soil is dry.- Fertilization: Verbascum Speciosum does not require a lot of fertilizer, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.- Soil: Verbascum Speciosum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but does not do well in heavy clay soils.- Sunlight: Verbascum Speciosum prefers full sun to partial shade. The plant can tolerate some shade, but will produce fewer flowers.- Hardiness Zones: Verbascum Speciosum is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Verbascum Speciosum is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but there are a few issues to watch out for:- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure the plant is grown in a location with good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.- Aphids: These small insects can infest the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing damage and stunting growth. To control aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water or use an insecticidal soap.- Slugs and snails: These pests can feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing damage. To control slugs and snails, use a slug bait or set out beer traps.
Habitat
Verbascum Speciosum is native to the mountains of Turkey and Iran, where it grows in rocky, well-drained soils. The plant prefers a cool, dry climate with mild winters and warm summers. Verbascum Speciosum is often grown in gardens as an ornamental plant, and can be used in borders, rock gardens, and wildflower meadows.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Verbascum Speciosum a drought-tolerant plant?
A: While Verbascum Speciosum can tolerate some drought, it prefers to be grown in soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Verbascum Speciosum?
A: Verbascum Speciosum does not require a lot of fertilizer, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.
Q: Can I grow Verbascum Speciosum in a container?
A: While Verbascum Speciosum can be grown in a container, it is best suited for growing in the ground where it has room to spread out.
Q: Does Verbascum Speciosum attract bees?
A: Yes, Verbascum Speciosum is a popular plant among bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants that are related to Verbascum Speciosum:- Verbascum Chaixii- Verbascum Olympicum- Verbascum Phoeniceum- Verbascum Thapsus
References
– “Verbascum speciosum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282686- “Verbascum speciosum.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/7825/Verbascum-speciosum/Details- “Verbascum speciosum.” Plants of the World Online. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:810458-1
