Dark Mullein

Verbascum nigrum

annual1×0.6 mzone 5–9full sun

Profile

Family: Scrophulariaceae
Habit: annual
Height: 1 m
Spread: 0.6 m
Growth: very fast
Lifespan: 2 years
First yield: after 1 year
Hardiness: zone 5–9
Shade tolerance: full sun
Soil: Sand, Silt, Loam
Soil moisture: very dry – moist
pH: 5.3 – 8.6
Synonyms: Dark Mullein, Black Mullein

pollen source

Flowering & harvest

	J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
Flowering
Leaf harvest

Times apply to the northern hemisphere in a temperate climate and shift with altitude and cultivar.

Uses

Edible1 of 10

Medicinal6 of 10

Other uses4 of 10

Growing

Verbascum nigrum thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained loamy or sandy soils. It prefers neutral to alkaline pH and tolerates dry conditions. Sow seeds in late spring or early summer; germination takes 2-3 weeks. Avoid disturbing the taproot when transplanting. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage prolonged blooming. Water moderately, allowing soil to dry between watering.

⚠️ Hazards

Toxicity: slightly toxic

This is no substitute for expert identification. When in doubt, do not eat it.

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