Common Mullein

Member of Figwort Family

Blooms: March - November

Mullein grows in poor, sandy, rocky soil usually in pastures and disturbed areas. Found this one in an open area where timber had been cut. It can grow up to 6 ft. tall and has leaves covered with feltlike grey hairs. The blooms are very pretty. As the stalk of the plant continues to grow upward, it continues to bloom. In fall the long stalk is full of seeds, which burst open and replenish itself.

There are several common names for this plant, "Flannel Leaf", "Indian Tobacco", Jupiter's Staff" and "Velvet Dock". The Indians and early settlers made a tea from the leaves, using the hot vapors to be inhaled for throat irritation, and the leaves were soaked in hot vinegar and water to form a poultice applied to external irritations. It has been recorded that in Mexico, the dried leaves were smoked to treat asthma. Dried stalks were dipped in was and used as candles. Click on close up and see how unique this plant is.