Verbascum phoeniceum 'Violetta' (Purple mullein 'Violetta') — Clump forming

Overview

Verbascum phoeniceum 'Violetta' is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Verbascum, part of the Scrophulariaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Verbascum phoeniceum 'Violetta' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline 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 phoeniceum 'Violetta' (purple mullein 'Violetta') is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial in the Scrophulariaceae family. It features evergreen foliage and typically grows to a height of 0.5 to 1 metre with a spread of 0.1 to 0.5 metres, reaching full height within 2 to 5 years. This cultivar thrives in full sun, particularly on west- or south-facing aspects, and is suited to both exposed and sheltered locations. It prefers well-drained alkaline soils such as chalk, loam, or sand, and is drought resistant. Its season of interest includes 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
Soil moisture: Well-drained
Aspect: West-facing, South-facing
Exposure: Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness: H6

Plant details

Verbascum phoeniceum 'Violetta' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Herbaceous Perennial
Habit: Clump forming
Foliage: Evergreen
Height: 0.5-1 metres
Spread: 0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height: 2-5 years
Suggested uses: Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Verbascum phoeniceum 'Violetta'

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 phoeniceum 'Violetta'?

Verbascum phoeniceum 'Violetta' prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Verbascum phoeniceum 'Violetta' need?

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