Verbascum boerhavii, commonly known as Boerhavia mullein, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Scrophulariaceae. Native to the Mediterranean region, it thrives in diverse habitats such as rocky slopes, meadows, and open woodlands. The plant can grow up to 1 meter tall and features a basal rosette of hairy, lance-shaped leaves. At the top of its stem, dense spikes of yellow flowers with purple stamens emerge. Historically, Verbascum boerhavii has been used for medicinal purposes due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It is especially effective in treating respiratory ailments like coughs, bronchitis, and asthma. Externally, it can be applied to the skin to treat conditions such as eczema and wounds, thanks to its antiseptic properties. With its tall spikes of yellow flowers that bloom from late spring through summer, Verbascum boerhavii is an attractive addition to any garden. The flowers not only add visual appeal but also attract bees and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for pollinator-friendly gardens or wildflower meadows.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Biennial, Perennial, Annual
- Genus
- Verbascum
- Family
- Scrophulariaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 5-9
- Mature Height
- 0.49 m to 2.13 m
- Mature Spread
- 61 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Gray, Silver
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Flower Size
- 3.05 cm to 5.08 cm
- Bloom Time
- Summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Native Area
- Turkey, Austria, Slovakia, Montenegro, Croatia, Slovenia, Belarus, Russia, Germany, Romania, France, Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Armenia, Poland, Greece, Ukraine, Serbia, Italy, Kazakhstan, Switzerland, Albania, Azerbaijan, Hungary
Other names.
