Verbascum thapsus

(Mullein)

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Verbascum thapsus, Breckenridge, Summit Co. 5172

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Verbascum thapsus, Breckenridge, Summit Co. 5178

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Verbascum thapsus, Breckenridge, Summit Co. 5186

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Verbascum thapsus, Schofield Pass Rd., Gunnison Co. 0090

Scientific Name Verbascum thapsus USDA PLANTS Symbol VETH
Common Name Mullein ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. 33394
Family Scrophulariaceae (Figwort) SEINet
Reference
Click Here
Description Life zones and habitat: Plains to montane (4000 to 9500 ft.); openings, disturbed areas, roadsides.
Plant: Erect fuzzy biennial 2 to 6 feet tall, leafy base.
Leaves: Large 3 to 20 inch-long velvety, oblanceolate to obovate to ovate pale-green leaves in a basal rosette (first year) and alternate along the lower stem thereafter; margins crenate to almost entire.
Inflorescence: Yellow flowers with 5 petals densely arranged on a spike-like, terminal panicle up to 20 inches long; 5 stamens with red, orange or yellow anthers; flowers are short-lived, open to pollination for 1 day from just before dawn to midafternoon.
Bloom Period: June to October.
References: "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield, Colorado Dept. of Agriculture, US Forest Service Fire Effects Information System.
Note: Verbascum thapsus has a number of beneficial uses, even though it is considered an invasive species. To learn more click here.
BONAP Distribution Map


Map Color Key
Colorado Status:
Introduced
INVASIVE

© Tom Lebsack 2024

Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains