Verbascum thapsus
Verbascum thapsus L.
Verbascum thapsus is a striking biennial wildflower native to Europe and Asia that has naturalized across North America, producing a towering spike of soft yellow flowers above a dramatic rosette of thick, woolly silver-grey leaves. It symbolizes protection, good health, and courage.
Scrophulariaceae (Figwort family)
June to August (midsummer), second year of growth only
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: eucalyptuss and yarrows also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Common mullein has one of the richest folk histories of any wildflower in the Western world. Its common names alone tell the story: "Aaron's Rod" references the miraculous flowering staff of the biblical Aaron; "Hag's Taper" recalls its ancient use with the stalks dipped in tallow and burned as torches; "Flannel Plant" describes the unmistakably soft, woolly texture of its leaves. Roman soldiers reportedly dipped the dried stalks in fat and used them as torches. In folk magic traditions across Europe and North America, it was carried as a protective charm. Its extraordinary height and dramatic presence have made it a symbol of courage and standing firm.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun; does not thrive in shade
Water
Highly drought tolerant once established; thrives in dry, disturbed soils; does not tolerate waterlogging
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Gravelly, Poor to moderate fertility, Alkaline to neutral, pH 6.0–8.0
Expert Growing Tips
Direct sow seeds on the soil surface in late spring or early summer for flowers the following year
Plant in poor, well-drained soil; rich soil produces lush foliage but weak, floppy stems
Allow a few plants to self-seed each year to maintain a continuing population
The woolly first-year rosettes are highly ornamental through winter
Remove spent flower spikes before seeds mature to prevent excessive self-seeding
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Dramatic vertical accent in naturalistic and cottage gardens
- Wildflower and prairie meadow plantings
- Dry gravel garden specimen
- Architectural backdrop plant for borders
- Dried flower and seed head arrangements
Traditional Uses
- Leaves and flowers have been used in traditional herbal medicine since ancient times as a tea for respiratory conditions including coughs, bronchitis, and sore throats
- Leaf poultices were applied externally to soothe skin inflammations, burns, and bruises in folk traditions
- Flowers infused in oil were used as eardrops for ear infections in many European folk traditions
- Classified as a traditional medicinal herb in European pharmacopoeias; not a substitute for professional medical advice
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Verbascum thapsus
What does Verbascum thapsus symbolize?
Common mullein symbolizes protection, courage, and healing. Its towering stature and long history as a medicinal and protective herb in folk traditions across Europe and North America give it associations with strength, resilience, and light in dark times.
Is Verbascum thapsus native to North America?
No, Common Mullein is native to Europe and western Asia. It was introduced to North America by early European settlers, both accidentally and intentionally for its herbal uses, and has naturalized widely across the continent.
Is Common Mullein invasive?
It is considered a naturalized weed or invasive species in many parts of North America, particularly in disturbed habitats and roadsides. It self-seeds prolifically, so removing spent flower spikes before seeds mature helps control its spread in a garden setting.
What are the traditional medicinal uses of Common Mullein?
Traditionally, the leaves and flowers were brewed as a tea to soothe coughs and respiratory conditions, used in poultices for skin inflammations, and infused in oil for ear complaints. These uses have a long history in European and North American folk medicine, though none replace professional medical advice.
Is Verbascum thapsus a perennial?
No, it is a biennial. In the first year it produces only a flat rosette of large, woolly leaves. In the second year it sends up its tall flowering spike, sets seed, and then dies. However, it self-seeds so reliably that established plants seem to return year after year.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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