Great Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)

Great Mullein (Verbascum thapsus), known in Irish as Coinnle Muire, is a striking biennial wildflower native to Ireland. In its first year, it forms a rosette of large, velvety, silver-green leaves. The second year brings forth a towering, candle-like spike reaching up to 2.5 meters, adorned with numerous small, yellow, saucer-shaped flowers from June to August .
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Thriving in full sun and well-drained soils—particularly chalky, sandy, or gravelly substrates—Great Mullein is well-suited for wildflower meadows, cottage gardens, and wildlife-friendly borders. Its flowers are rich in nectar and pollen, attracting bees, hoverflies, and other beneficial insects. Additionally, the plant serves as a host for the mullein moth larva, and carder bees utilize its soft leaf hairs for nest-building .
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Historically, Great Mullein has been valued for its medicinal properties, particularly in soothing respiratory ailments. Mullein tea, made from its leaves and flowers, has been used to alleviate throat and chest irritations. However, due to the presence of fine hairs on the plant, it’s recommended to strain the tea through a fine filter to avoid irritation .
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Key Features:

Height: Up to 2.5 meters

Bloom Time: June to August

Flower Color: Bright yellow

Soil Preference: Well-drained; chalky, sandy, or gravelly soils

Sunlight: Full sun

Wildlife Benefits: Attracts bees, hoverflies, and supports mullein moth larvae

Native Range: Ireland and Eurasia
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Great Mullein’s towering presence and ecological benefits make it a valuable addition to gardens aiming for both aesthetic appeal and biodiversity.