Also known as Clasping Mullein · Clasping-Leaved Mullein · Downy Mullein
Orange Mullein (Verbascum phlomoides) is a striking biennial or short-lived perennial with tall spires of bright orange flowers, ideal for sunny, well-drained sites.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best growth and flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Drought tolerant once established.
Well-drained, Sandy, Loam
50% intensity
Adaptable
50% intensity
Hardy in many climates. Tolerates a range of temperatures but prefers moderate conditions.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low Feed
25% intensity
Does not require frequent feeding. Benefits from a light feed in poor soil.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Generally considered non-toxic to pets and humans. Some sources suggest mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities, but this is rare.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water moderately when the top few centimeters of soil are dry. Orange Mullein prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought once established.
Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot, especially in cooler conditions or during winter dormancy.
Deadhead spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming and prevent self-seeding if desired. After flowering, the basal rosette of leaves will persist.
Cut back dead or damaged foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges to maintain a tidy appearance.
Propagate by seeds sown in spring or autumn, either directly outdoors or in a seed tray. It can also be propagated by division of established clumps in early spring. Cuttings can be taken from basal shoots in spring.
Repotting is rarely necessary for Verbascum phlomoides as it is typically grown as an annual or short-lived perennial in garden beds. If grown in a container and it becomes root-bound, repot in spring into a slightly larger container with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Orange Mullein (Verbascum phlomoides)
Where Orange Mullein (Verbascum phlomoides) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus | Verbascum |
| Species | Verbascum phlomoides |
Similar in genus Verbascum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
