About
This biennial or short-lived perennial forming a rosette of lance-shaped, mid-green leaves which may overwinter. In mid- to late summer produces a strongly upright, branched, flowering spike bearing yellow or white, saucer-shaped blooms.
About the genus
Verbascum can be annuals, biennials, perennials or subshrubs mostly with hairy leaves and 5-petalled, saucer-shaped flowers
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitColumnar upright, Clump forming
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCoastal, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationBest in poor, well-drained, alkaline soil in full sun. In fertile soils, it can grow large and need support
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to caterpillars and figwort weevil
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews