Mullein: Verbascum thapsus

Plant Family & Name:

a. Scrophulariaceae (Figwort family)

b. Verbascum is an ancient Latin name associated with mullein-like plants. The exact origin is uncertain, though it has sometimes been connected with words meaning “beard” or “hairy,” which fits the plant’s remarkably fuzzy leaves.

Thapsus refers to Thapsus, an ancient city in what is now Tunisia, associated with the historical naming of the species.

Mullein is also known as common mullein, great mullein, woolly mullein, candlewick plant, velvet plant, and flannel leaf. The common names woolly mullein and flannel leaf are especially descriptive because the leaves are covered in dense, soft hairs.

Habitat & Ecological role: Common mullein is native to Europe, northern Africa, and parts of Asia and has become widely naturalized throughout North America. It commonly grows in fields, roadsides, meadows, pastures, forest edges, disturbed ground, gravelly areas, and dry open habitats.

Mullein is a biennial. During its first year, it generally produces a low-growing rosette of large, soft leaves close to the ground.

During the second year, it sends up a striking tall flowering stalk, sometimes several feet high, covered with yellow flowers.

The flowers attract bees and other insects, while the plant’s abundant seeds can remain viable in soil for many years.

Parts Used: Leaves and flowers — primarily the flowering tops and soft leaves.

Herbal Actions: Demulcent, soothing, expectorant, anti-inflammatory, vulnerary, emollient, astringent, antitussive.

Season:

Leaves — spring through summer

Flowers — summer

Root — autumn or spring of the first year

Taste: Mild, slightly bitter, green, earthy, soft.

Energetic Qualities:

Cooling, soothing, moistening, softening, protective, gentle.

Indications: dry coughs, irritated airways, sore throats, hoarseness, respiratory congestion, ear discomfort, and minor inflammatory skin conditions.

Body system affinities: Respiratory, integumentary, auditory, musculoskeletal, urinary.

Safety: Correct plant identification is important because there are many Verbascum species.