Moth mullein (Verbascum pseudoblattaria)
Care, watering, light and tips for Moth mullein on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Scrophulariaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Moth mullein
Verbascum pseudoblattaria, commonly known as False Mullein, is a biennial or short-lived perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and Asia. It features a basal rosette of leaves and a tall flower stalk, up to 1.5 meters, adorned with saucer-shaped yellow or white flowers. It is ideal for cottage gardens, roadside borders, or naturalized meadows, adding vertical interest and a wild touch.
Native range
Europe and Asia
Care tips
It thrives in full sun exposure and well-drained soil, even poor or calcareous, as it does not tolerate waterlogging. Watering should be moderate, especially once established, as it is quite drought tolerant. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can promote leafy growth at the expense of flowering. It's crucial not to transplant mature plants, as they have a sensitive taproot.
How to save a dying Moth mullein
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or wilting basal leaves, soft and collapsed stem, stunted growth.
- First aid
- Check drainage. If waterlogged, repot into dry soil. If very dry, water moderately.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and poor drainage, leading to root rot. It dislikes heavy, wet soils.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot hasn't consumed the entire stem. Act quickly with drainage.