Classyweed
Verbascum phlomoides · Scrophulariaceae
📷 George Chernilevsky · Public domain
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around classyweed and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to September
- Adult size
- 80 to 150 cm tall
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (-15 °C)
- Origin
- Southern and central Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained soil, even poor
Expert tips
The key tip
Plante très facile une fois établie, mais elle déteste l'humidité stagnante : plante-la en sol bien drainant, même pauvre et caillouteux, et arrose peu après la plantation. La molène pousse mieux en terrain sec que fertile, ce qui en fait une excellente candidate pour les zones négligées.
The common mistake
La plupart des jardiniers la surencombrent d'arrosages ou l'installent dans un sol lourd : elle pourrit à la racine bien avant de mourir de soif. Si tu dois choisir entre trop sec et trop humide, choisis sec sans hésiter.
The pro's trick
Laisse-la monter en graines généreusement et tu auras des semis spontanés les années suivantes sans effort. Coupe quelques fleurs fanées au sommet pour prolonger la floraison, mais ne désherbe pas les petits pieds qui percent autour : tu les gardes gratuitement.
Seasonal watch
En automne et hiver, surveille les pourrissements du collet si tu as un climat humide : assure un drainage maximal sous la base de la plante, ou surélève-la légèrement. À l'inverse, en été très sec, même si elle résiste, un arrosage profond mais rare au cœur de l'été renforce les fleurs.
Care
Light exposure
Place your mullein in full sun for generous flowering and compact growth. It also tolerates partial shade, but will flower less abundantly. Avoid overly shaded locations.
Watering
Water moderately and regularly during the growth period and flowering. Once established, mullein tolerates drought well thanks to its deep roots. Reduce watering in winter.
Soil
Mullein thrives in well-drained soil, even poor and chalky soil. It dislikes excess moisture and waterlogging. Improve drainage with gravel or sand if your soil is clay-based.
Pruning
Remove faded flowers to extend flowering and encourage lateral stems to develop. Cut stems to ground level in late winter. This plant often self-seeds naturally.
Fertilizing
A moderate fertilizer application in spring is sufficient. On rich soil, mullein produces more foliage at the expense of flowers. Prefer naturally poor soil for optimal flowering.
Diseases and pests
Mullein is generally very robust. In overly moist soil, watch for root rot. Aphids may occasionally affect it. Ensure good air circulation around your plants.
Did you know?
False-phlomis mullein was long used in traditional European medicine to soothe respiratory ailments. Its large velvety leaves once served as natural toilet paper in rural areas, hence its folk nickname of "mule paper".
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.