Verbascum speciosum aka Hungarian Mullein

Taxonomy

Verbascum speciosum, also known as Hungarian mullein or showy mullein, is a tall biennial plant in the figwort family. Native to eastern Europe and western Asia, it has become an introduced species and roadside weed in many regions. This herb forms a rosette of large, silver-grey hairy leaves at the base, which alternate part-way up the stem and decrease in length. The plant can reach a maximum height of over one meter. In summer, Hungarian mullein produces large, branched panicles that can grow up to 2 meters in height. These panicles are adorned with yellow flowers, each with a corolla measuring 2 to 3 centimeters wide and five yellow petals. The center of each flower contains five stamens coated in long white hairs. The plant's fruit is a capsule up to 7 millimeters long, filled with numerous seeds. As a houseplant, Hungarian mullein is considered super rare and requires regular watering to thrive. It prefers long-lasting, direct light and should be positioned within 1 foot of a window. It thrives in well-draining soil and does not usually require additional fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size.

Common names

Hungarian Mullein, Showy Mullein

How to care for Hungarian Mullein

Water

Hungarian Mullein should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Hungarian Mullein loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Hungarian Mullein thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Hungarian Mullein.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The Hungarian Mullein should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.


More info:
Wikipedia