Moth Mullein
Moth Mullein
Verbascum blattaria
Identification
- Roots: stout taproot and fibrous roots.
- Leaves: Dark green rosette leaves are lobed along the edges with prominent whitish veins and lack hairs or are sparsely hairy (different to the velvety leaves of common mullein).
- Stems: Solitary stems 1-3 feet tall.
- Flowers: Large flowers (up to 1” wide) bloom from the bottom to the top the solitary stem. White to yellow petals with purple centers. 5 stamens with long, soft, curved hairs like a moth’s antennae.
- Seeds/Fruits: Seeds are dark brown, round, and hairy capsules.
Life Cycle
Biennial
Habitat
Found in disturbed, often rocky soil of grasslands, meadows, open forest, talus slopes, and along roadsides.
Control
Post-emergent herbicides control mullein, including 2,4-D, aminopyralid, picloram, chlorsulfuron, and metsulfuron.
