Verbascum.......

.........a really bright image in stark contrast to yesterdays quiet little moth and the marigolds are still doing well. (and I spy a couple of weeds!!)

Verbascum or dark mullein (also known as velvet plant) is a genus of about 250 species of flowering plants in the figwort family Scrophulariaceae. They are native to Europe and Asia, with the highest species diversity in the Mediterranean.

They require a sunny spot and free-draining soil. They are ideal for gravel gardens or mixed borders. Deadheading will encourage further flowering, but remember to allow annuals and biennials to self-seed.

Each verbascum leaf can be 1ft long and nearly half as wide. They lie flat on the ground, like an open fan though not all mine do. From this solid base the flower stems rise, several to each plant, often reaching 3ft in height. I do find that a thin cane stops them keeling over, which they are apt to do.

BOUI for Verbascum:-

1) Old writers suggest that it was used by sorcerers.

2) Poachers of fish are said to have made their quarry drunk by feeding them the seeds.

3) Cockroaches are allergic to one species.

4) A concoction from the tissues is supposed to turn the hair as golden as a goddess's.

5) A tisane - (herbal tea) - made from the leaves has been claimed to cure many ills, from gout to ringworm.


Yet another gorgeous day - 74 Deg.F at 11.00 am and promising to get higher! - a nice breeze if you sit in the shade.

Have a great weekend - don't get sunburnt!