Herb: Hoary Mullein


Latin name: Verbascum pulverulentum


Family: Scrophulariaceae (Figwort Family)



Medicinal use of Hoary Mullein:

The plant (seeds?) are used to rid the body of tapeworms.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Biennial


Height:
180 cm
(6 feet)

Flowering:
July to
August

Habitat of the herb:

A rare native along roadsides in Norfolk and Suffolk, a rare casual elsewhere.

Propagation of Hoary Mullein:

Seed - sow late spring to early summer in a cold frame and only just cover the seed. Germination usually takes place within 2 - 3 weeks. When they are large enough to handle, prick out the seedlings into individual pots and plant them out in late summer. The seed has a long viability.

Cultivation of the herb:

A rare native along roadsides in Norfolk and Suffolk, a rare casual elsewhere.

Known hazards of Verbascum pulverulentum:

The leaves contain rotenone and coumarin, though the quantities are not given. Rotenone is used as an insecticide and coumarin can prevent the blood from clotting. Hairs on the leaves can act as an irritant.

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.