Verbascum pulverulentum 

'Hoary Mullein'

Scrophulariaceae: A rare upright biennial to 2m. The whole plant is covered in white, woolly hairs that easily rub off. Grows on dry calcareous grassland. the flowers are yellow in un branched spikes, blooming from July-September. Ovate leaves that are woolly on both sides. Locally found only in East Anglia. Native to Europe, including Britain, from the Netherlands south and east to Spain, Switzerland, Greece.

USES:

An aromatic, slightly bitter tea can be made by infusing the dried leaves in boiling water for 5 - 10 minutes. A sweeter tea can be made by infusing the fresh or dried flowers.

Great mullein is a commonly used domestic herbal remedy, valued for its efficacy in the treatment of pectoral complaints. It acts by reducing the formation of mucus and stimulating the coughing up of phlegm, and is a specific treatment for tracheitis and bronchitis. The leaves and the flowers have anodyne, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, demulcent, diuretic, emollient, expectorant and vulnerary properties. An infusion is taken internally in the treatment of a wide range of chest complaints and also to treat diarrhoea.

GROWING INFORMATION:

An easily grown plant, it succeeds in most well-drained soils, including dry ones, and prefers a sunny position. Dislikes shade and wet soils. Sow seeds in late spring to early summer in a cold frame and only just cover the seed. Germination usually takes place within 2 - 3 weeks. When they are large enough to handle, prick out the seedlings into individual pots and plant them out in late summer. The seed has a long viability.

HARVESTED: 2020

 
APPROX. 200+ SEEDS