Dense-Flowered Mullein

Dense-Flowered Mullein: variety and characteristics

Dense-Flowered Mullein (Verbascum densiflorum) is a biennial herb of the Scrophulariaceae family. Mullein is widespread in Central and Southern Europe, in Asia Minor, Morocco and many other places in the temperate zone. Previously dried stems soaked in resin or wax were used as candles or torches.

With its abundant golden-yellow flowers and its resemblance to a large candle with its tall stem, the plant does great honour to its name. and flowers up to 5 cm across.

The leaves form a rosette and are arranged opposite each other on the stem. The yellow flowers are slightly asymmetrical and grow in clusters of 2-5 on long spikes. Their petals grow in the lower part; the upper 2 are slightly smaller than the lower 3. The flowering time is from July to September.

The corolla, with the dried petals on it and the five stamens, is used as a herb.

Based on long experience, mullein flowers can be used to relieve sore throat symptoms associated with dry coughs and colds. Traditionally used in combination with other remedies to help loosen mucus in the airways.

Mullein is an imposing biennial herb with tall yellow spikes – medicinal for coughs and ornamental.

Key features

• Measured germination rate of the batch: 75%
• Pack size: 0.2 g
• Seed origin: Poland
• Sowing: April and May; direct
• Flowering: July – September
• Harvest: May – July
• Position: sunny spot

When to sow Dense-Flowered Mullein

Dense-Flowered Mullein seeds are sown in April and May. The plants flower from July to September. The crop is harvested from May to July. The months are a guide for a temperate climate — in warmer areas sow 1–2 weeks earlier, in cooler or upland areas, later.

How to sow and grow Dense-Flowered Mullein

• Sowing method: direct
• Depth: on the surface
• Spacing: 40–50 cm
• Germination: 14–21 days
• Position: sunny spot

Sow seeds in April–May in pots or in the ground. They germinate after 14-20 days. It is advisable to prick out plants that grow too densely. At the end of summer the seedlings are planted in their permanent position 40-50 cm apart. Mullein grows best in dry, calcium-rich soil in a sunny spot. The rosette forms in the second year. The seeds need light and a cold period (one winter) to germinate. The plant likes dry to slightly moist sandy-clay soils.

Likes dry soil; self-seeds.

Harvest and use

The flowers are picked and dried.

Frequently asked questions

When should Dense-Flowered Mullein be sown?

The recommended sowing months are April and May. Sowing method: direct.

What is the germination rate of the seeds?

The measured germination rate of this batch is 75%. The test was carried out under controlled laboratory conditions; in the field, emergence depends on soil, temperature and moisture.