Verbascum olympicum, the Greek mullein, Olympian mullein or Olympic mullein, is a species of flowering plant in the family Scrophulariaceae, native to northwest Turkey. A short-lived perennial reaching 2 m (6 ft 7 in), the Royal Horticultural Society considers it a good plant to attract pollinators.
Olympic mullein has strong resistance to disease and is generally not prone to illnesses. Still, it can be affected by pests and diseases found in its environment. These problems are typically mild. Regarding care, this plant needs a moderate level of attention. It should be pruned regularly to preserve its appearance and support healthy growth. Applying fertilizer can also encourage more flowering. Olympic mullein is appropriate for anyone with outdoor space like a garden or patio and does not demand extensive gardening experience. When cultivated indoors, it may need extra care.
How to keep Verbascum Olympicum.
Light
Olympic mullein is an herbaceous perennial that prefers sunny locations and comes from open habitats, commonly found in meadows and grasslands. It favors full sun but can also tolerate partial sun.
Water
Olympic mullein thrives in conditions with moderate watering and good drainage, showing a preference for dry to medium moisture levels. This is indicative of its drought tolerance. Watering once a week helps maintain the right balance, making Olympic mullein an ideal choice for gardens that prioritize water conservation. This is especially beneficial in temperate regions that experience seasonal rainfall.
Temperature
Olympic mullein can tolerate a wide variety of temperatures, though its distribution can still be constrained by specific combinations of moisture and heat. It grows best in warm summer conditions with sufficient rainfall or irrigation. Extended periods of cloudy, rainy weather or prolonged high heat raise the chances of the plant dying. In winter, adequate protection from cold improves its survival rate.
Fertilizer
The best time to fertilize an Olympic mullein is in early spring, as it comes out of dormancy and starts active growth. Fertilizing supplies key nutrients needed for healthy development. Although Olympic mullein has relatively low fertilizer requirements, yearly fertilization can boost its survival and encourage better, longer-lasting flowers.
Pruning
The Olympic mullein is characterized by its tall, woolly stems and vibrant yellow flowers. For optimal growth, prune the plant in early spring to remove any dead growth. Prune again in late spring to shape the plant and encourage blooming. After the flowers have bloomed, cut back the spent flower spikes to promote re-blooming and improve air circulation. Make sure to use clean, sharp tools for effective pruning.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial, Biennial
- Genus
- Verbascum
- Family
- Scrophulariaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 5-9
- Mature Height
- 2.13 m
- Mature Spread
- 61 cm
- Leaf Color
- Silver, Green, Gray
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Flower Size
- 2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall
- Native Area
- Turkey
Other names.
