Verbascum bombyciferum 'Polarsommer' (mullein 'Polarsommer') — Columnar upright

Overview

Verbascum bombyciferum 'Polarsommer' is a columnar upright herbaceous perennial in the genus Verbascum, part of the Scrophulariaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 1.5-2.5 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 1-2 years. Verbascum bombyciferum 'Polarsommer' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. It is drought resistant. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, gravel garden, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds.

About

Verbascum bombyciferum 'Polarsommer' is a cultivar of mullein, a genus of herbaceous perennials, annuals, and biennials in the Scrophulariaceae family. This plant has a columnar upright habit with evergreen foliage, growing to a height of 1.5 to 2.5 metres and spreading 0.5 to 1 metre. It reaches full height within 1 to 2 years and thrives in full sun, favouring south- or west-facing aspects. Suitable for both exposed and sheltered locations, it prefers well-drained chalk, loam, or sand soils with neutral to alkaline pH and is drought resistant. It is of interest throughout spring, summer, and winter.

About the genus

Verbascum is a genus of over 450 species of flowering plants, common name mullein, in the figwort family Scrophulariaceae. They are native to Europe and Asia, with the highest species diversity in the Mediterranean.

Wikipedia contributors, "Verbascum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Verbascum

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Verbascum

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness: H6

Plant details

Verbascum bombyciferum 'Polarsommer' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Herbaceous Perennial, Annual Biennial
Habit: Columnar upright
Foliage: Evergreen
Height: 1.5-2.5 metres
Spread: 0.5-1 metres
Time to full height: 1-2 years
Suggested uses: Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Verbascum bombyciferum 'Polarsommer'

Propagation: Seed sown in containers in a cold frame in spring or early summer, root cuttings in winter
Pest resistance: Mullein moth caterpillars, Figwort weevil
Disease resistance: Powdery mildews

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Verbascum bombyciferum 'Polarsommer'?

Verbascum bombyciferum 'Polarsommer' prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Verbascum bombyciferum 'Polarsommer' need?

Verbascum bombyciferum 'Polarsommer' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.