Smallflower Mullein Flowers (Verbascum thapsus) (1 oz) #11337

Mullein (Verbascum thapsis) is a tall biennial in the Scrophulariaceae, or figwort family, native to Central and Southern Europe and Asia. It now proliferates in temperate climates across the Northern Hemisphere, preferring sunny conditions in disturbed soil. It is often one of the first plants to spring up on land that is recovering from trauma. In the first year of growth, Mullein consists of a spiral rosette of long fuzzy leaves, and in the second year, sends up an impressive tall flower stalk that can reach up to 6-8 feet in height. The flowers are five-petaled and yellow, that form in crumpled, popcorn-looking orbs along the tall stalk. Many of Mullein’s early common names like “candlewick” and “torches” refer to the ancient practice of dipping Mullein stalks in fat and burning them as a source of light. 

In more recent history, Mullein has been referred to as “lungwort” or “clown’s lungwort” indicating its popular use throughout history as a lung tonic and to help clear the lungs during coughs and colds.