Verbascum phoeniceum
‘Violetta’
at Digging Dog

Purple Mullein

Verbascum

Mullein

This genus has a host of common names, including ‘Beggar’s Blanket’ and ‘Old Man’s Flannel’. In England, the very poor used to put the thick leaves into their shoes for warmth. It is also said that when fish eat the seeds, they are stupefied and can be gathered by hand.

Although most of the more than 300 species are biennials, our offerings are perennials. Though some are dwarfs and some are giants, nearly all have fuzzy stamens and prefer very well drained sandy or rocky soil. We like to use them in the rock garden as specimens or for naturalizing.

Verbascum phoeniceum ‘Violetta’ 

As a precursor to the royal floral show of this delicate Mullein, enchanting buds swell, resembling tiny, dark satin pillows. A deep green, flat rosette of oval-shaped, crinkled leaves provides an attractive base for the airy and richly colored flowering spikes. Brightened by gilt stamens, papery purple blooms are flat-faced and look fabulous in arrangements. Self-seeding easily, and shorter in stature than most Verbascums, ‘Violetta’ is perfect for the smaller garden.

Blooms May–August.

Size: 2'–3' high x 18" wide; hardy to zone 6.

Verbascum phoeniceum Violetta (P-0972)
Each $6.00
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