Overview

Verbascum phoeniceum 'Flush of White' is a columnar upright perennial in the genus Verbascum, part of the Scrophulariaceae family, with semi evergreen, evergreen foliage. Verbascum phoeniceum 'Flush of White' grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained soils and neutral and alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders and cottage gardens. It is native to Central Europe, Central Asia and Western China.

About

Verbascum phoeniceum, known as purple mullein, is a species of mullein that is part of the family Scrophulariaceae native to Central Europe, Central Asia and Western China. It is also naturalized in certain regions of the US and Canada.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Verbascum phoeniceum

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 4.0Verbascum

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Verbascum

Sunlight
full sun
Soil type
well-drained
Soil pH
neutral, alkaline
Soil moisture
moderate
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Verbascum phoeniceum 'Flush of White' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
perennial
Habit
Columnar upright
Foliage
Semi evergreen, Evergreen
Suggested uses
borders, cottage gardens
Native to
Central Europe, Central Asia, Western China

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Verbascum phoeniceum 'Flush of White'

Cultivation
Prefers well-drained soil in full sun; drought tolerant once established.
Pruning
Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth.
Propagation
seed, basal cuttings
Pest resistance
Mullein moth caterpillars, Figwort weevil
Disease resistance
Powdery mildews

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Verbascum phoeniceum 'Flush of White'?

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

Where is the best place to plant Verbascum phoeniceum 'Flush of White'?

Verbascum phoeniceum 'Flush of White' prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Verbascum phoeniceum 'Flush of White' need?

Verbascum phoeniceum 'Flush of White' grows best in well-drained soil. It prefers neutral and alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.

How do I prune Verbascum phoeniceum 'Flush of White'?

Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth.

Is Verbascum phoeniceum 'Flush of White' hardy in the UK?

Verbascum phoeniceum 'Flush of White' 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 phoeniceum 'Flush of White'?

Seed, basal cuttings.

More in the Verbascum genus

Browse all Verbascum