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Submit a photoCommon Mullein
Verbascum thapsus
⚠️ Introduced from Europe/Asia and classified as a Noxious weed under Alberta's Weed Control Act. A tall biennial — first year produces a rosette of large fuzzy silver-grey leaves, second year sends up a dramatic yellow-flowered spike up to 2 m tall. Historically grown as a medicinal herb (mullein-leaf tea for coughs and respiratory complaints) and as a fish poison. One plant can produce 100,000+ long-lived seeds, so removal before seed-set is important.
Quick Facts
Distribution
Introduced throughout Alberta — disturbed ground, roadsides, gravel pits
Light
Full sun
Bloom Time
June–Sept (2nd year)
Soil
Disturbed, gravelly, sandy-silty; dislikes competition
Water
Low
Growing & Cultivation
Propagation
(Not recommended — listed noxious weed) Reproduces only by seed; remove flower spikes before seed drop to prevent long-term seedbank buildup.
