dark mullein
Verbascum nigrum
RHS Plants for Pollinators
USDA zones6 to 9
SunNeeds full sun (6+ hours)
WaterHandles dry to moderate soil
Size2 to 3 feet tall12 to 24 inches wide
- Bloom season
- Summer, autumn
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Dark mullein (Verbascum nigrum) is a perennial for borders and pollinator gardens. This plant likes full sun and dry to average soil of most types. It blooms from early to late summer and draws butterflies, bees, and birds. It is not a favorite of deer or rabbits, though hungry ones will eat almost anything. The plant tolerates drought and grows 24 to 36 inches tall.
Pairs well with Soapwort, Lamb’s ear, and Sea holly.
Native range
Europe, Central Asia, Altay, Baleares, and 2 more places. See all 6
Europe, Central Asia, Altay, Baleares, Krasnoyarsk, and NW. Balkan Pen..