Common Mullein

More Flower Resources Moth Mullein Types of Weeds Pictures of Flowers

Common Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a large and conspicuous weed in the Figwort family (Scrophulariaceae).

Growing up to ten feet in height, the thin, woolly looking stem blossoms with yellow flowers.

Its size and aggressive manner means it edge out native plants wherever it is found, which is basically throughout the United States that receive at least medium amounts of rainfall.

The plant has shallow roots, so when the soil is most, they are easy to pull up.

The U.S. Forest Service notes, "Two insects that have possible biological control implications for common mullein are European curculionid weevil (Gymnaetron tetrum) and mullein moth (Cucullia verbasci)."

© 2009 Patricia A. Michaels