Polar Summer Mullein is a stunning biennial flower that commands attention with its towering spires of soft, silvery-gray foliage crowned by golden-yellow blooms. Native to the Mediterranean, Verbascum bombyciferum thrives in cold climates down to zone 4, reaching 4 to 6 feet tall with a spread of 2 to 3 feet. Its drought tolerance and resistance to deer make it an exceptionally hardy choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance drama, while its summer flowers draw pollinators with genuine enthusiasm.
2
Full Sun
Low
4-4
72in H x 36in W
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Moderate
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The silver-gray woolly leaves alone justify growing this mullein, catching light like velvet and creating a striking contrast before a single flower opens. Once blooms arrive in June through August, the tall spikes showcase hundreds of pale yellow flowers that seem to glow against the foliage. Deer and drought hold no power over it, and it thrives in harsh, sunny spots where many ornamentals struggle.
Grown as an ornamental flower for its dramatic vertical presence in gardens, borders, and sunny landscape beds where its height and silvery foliage provide architectural interest.
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Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your last spring frost in sterile germinating mix. Barely cover seeds and sprinkle with vermiculite to retain moisture. Keep soil around 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit until sprouts emerge in 7 to 21 days.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost date in spring. Space plants 2 inches apart in full sun with well-draining soil.
Direct sow in late spring for blooms the following year. Scatter seeds where you want them to grow in full sun.
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