Verbascum phoeniceum hybrids, 'Bridal Bouquet' (Mullein) — perennial

Overview

Verbascum phoeniceum hybrids, 'Bridal Bouquet' is a perennial in the genus Verbascum, part of the Scrophulariaceae family. Verbascum phoeniceum hybrids, 'Bridal Bouquet' 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 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 phoeniceum hybrids, 'Bridal Bouquet' is a perennial member of the Scrophulariaceae with origins that trace to Central Europe, Central Asia and western China. As a hybrid of the Verbascum phoeniceum group it suits gardeners who want a season of summer flowering; the recorded UK flowering period runs from June to September. Give it a sunny, south-facing position that is sheltered from strong winds and waterlogged soil. It requires well-drained soil that leans neutral to alkaline and a moderate, not waterlogged, moisture regime. The plant carries an H5 rating, which in plain terms means it is hardy across most of the UK; a protected, sunny aspect helps it avoid frost pockets and wind scorch. Plant 'Bridal Bouquet' in mixed borders or cottage-style beds where a summer display is required; place it where taller summer-flowering perennials can sit behind lower plants. Its seasonal flowering from June to September makes it useful for extending the main summer display in borders and informal beds.

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
Exposure: sheltered
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Verbascum phoeniceum hybrids, 'Bridal Bouquet' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Suggested uses: borders, cottage gardens
Native to: Central Europe, Central Asia, Western China

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Verbascum phoeniceum hybrids, 'Bridal Bouquet'

Cultivation: Grow in well-drained soil in full sun. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth.
Propagation: seed, basal cuttings

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Verbascum phoeniceum hybrids, 'Bridal Bouquet'?

Grow in well-drained soil in full sun. Avoid waterlogged conditions.

Where is the best place to plant Verbascum phoeniceum hybrids, 'Bridal Bouquet'?

Verbascum phoeniceum hybrids, 'Bridal Bouquet' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Verbascum phoeniceum hybrids, 'Bridal Bouquet' need?

Verbascum phoeniceum hybrids, 'Bridal Bouquet' grows best in well-drained soil. It prefers neutral and alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.

How do I prune Verbascum phoeniceum hybrids, 'Bridal Bouquet'?

Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth.

Is Verbascum phoeniceum hybrids, 'Bridal Bouquet' hardy in the UK?

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