Verbascum thapsus
(Mullein)
Verbascum thapsus, Breckenridge, Summit Co. 5172
Verbascum thapsus, Breckenridge, Summit Co. 5178
Verbascum thapsus, Breckenridge, Summit Co. 5186
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 |
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| 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