Mullein Seeds - Great
(Verbascum thapsus) Biennial. 85-120 days to maturity.
The large, velvety leaves of Great Mullein form the base of this plant and are traditionally used in smoke medicine for the promotion of lung health. From this fuzzy base sprouts a stately flower stalk, sometimes reaching fifteen feet in height! The flower stalk is made up of dozens of tiny little yellow flowers.
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Growth Habit: Upright growth to 15 feet height, with a rosette of velvety soft leaves in its first year and large leaves with a tall flowered spike in its second year. Self seeding.
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Average, well drained soil
When to Plant: Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last Spring frost OR direct seed outdoors in early Spring.
Stratification: Cold stratification will significantly improve germination. Chill seeds for 4-6 weeks at 2-4°C before sowing.
For more information on cold stratification, visit the Incredible Seeds Library.
How to Plant:
Direct sow: sow seeds on the soil surface and lightly tamp them without covering them, as seeds need light to germinate. Seeds will germinate in 14-21 days. Thin young plants to 18” apart.
Transplant: sow seeds in containers ⅛” deep, covering only very lightly with soil as seeds need light to germinate. Seeds should germinate in 14-21 days. Transplant out after risk of frost. Space young plants 1-2 feet apart.
When to Harvest: Harvest leaves in Spring, flowers in Summer, and seeds in Fall.
How to Harvest: Harvest fresh, clean leaves; harvest flowers every few days as they open, leaving some for the bees. To save seeds, harvest flower spikes once dried and brown.
Uses: Mullein leaves and flowers both have medicinal uses. The leaves in particular are known to promote respiratory health. The tall flower spikes can be dipped in wax and used as torches!
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