Verbascum 'Golden Bush' (Mullein) — perennial

Overview

Verbascum 'Golden Bush' is a perennial in the genus Verbascum, part of the Scrophulariaceae family. Verbascum 'Golden Bush' grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, rock gardens and containers.

About

Verbascum 'Golden Bush' is a perennial in the Scrophulariaceae family that flowers from June to September. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil and tolerates dry to medium moisture levels. Rated H5, it is hardy in typical UK gardens and will tolerate both sheltered and more exposed spots. Use it where an upright summer-flowering perennial is required, such as borders, rock gardens or containers.

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

In the garden

Verbascum 'Golden Bush' belongs to the genus Verbascum within the Scrophulariaceae and is grown as a perennial for its extended summer flowering. It produces its display between June and September, making it useful for mid- to late-summer colour in sunny positions. Plant in a site that receives full sun and has well-drained soil; the species tolerates dry to medium soil moisture so avoid heavy, waterlogged ground. The exposure range from sheltered to exposed means it will perform in coastal and inland situations provided roots remain free-draining. H5 hardiness indicates it is classed as hardy for UK conditions and will withstand normal winter temperatures across most regions. Choose planting locations where upright flowers can be seen from paths or seating areas: it fits neatly into mixed borders, complements open gravel or rock gardens, and can be grown in containers provided potting mix drains freely. In containers, reduce watering frequency compared with moisture-loving plants to match its preference for drier conditions. Allow the summer flowering period to run from June through September to get the best architectural effect from its tall flowering habit.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Verbascum

Sunlight: full sun
Soil type: well-drained
Soil moisture: dry to medium
Exposure: sheltered to exposed
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Verbascum 'Golden Bush' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Suggested uses: borders, rock gardens, containers

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Verbascum 'Golden Bush'

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil in full sun; drought tolerant once established.
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
Propagation: seed, basal cuttings

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Verbascum 'Golden Bush'?

Prefers well-drained soil in full sun; drought tolerant once established.

Where is the best place to plant Verbascum 'Golden Bush'?

Verbascum 'Golden Bush' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered to exposed positions.

What soil does Verbascum 'Golden Bush' need?

Verbascum 'Golden Bush' grows best in well-drained soil. Aim for soil that stays dry to medium.

How do I prune Verbascum 'Golden Bush'?

Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.

Is Verbascum 'Golden Bush' hardy in the UK?

Verbascum 'Golden Bush' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Verbascum 'Golden Bush'?

Seed, basal cuttings.

More in the Verbascum genus

Browse all Verbascum →