Orange Mullein: A Towering Biennial That Commands Attention
If you’ve ever wondered what plant creates those magnificent golden flower spikes that seem to reach for the sky in late summer, you’ve likely encountered orange mullein (Verbascum phlomoides). This striking biennial is hard to miss when it’s in full bloom, sending up impressive towers of bright yellow flowers that can make even the most modest garden feel grand.
What Exactly Is Orange Mullein?
Orange mullein is a robust biennial forb, meaning it completes its life cycle over two years and lacks the woody stems of shrubs and trees. Don’t let the orange in its name fool you—the flowers are actually a vibrant yellow. This plant belongs to the figwort family and is known for its distinctive fuzzy, gray-green leaves that feel almost like velvet to the touch.
Where Does It Come From and Where Can You Find It?
Originally hailing from Europe and western Asia, orange mullein has made itself quite at home across North America. This non-native species has naturalized widely and can now be found growing in numerous states and Canadian provinces, from Alberta and British Columbia in the west to Maine and Georgia in the east.
The Good, The Bad, and The Beautiful
Let’s be honest about what you’re getting into with orange mullein. On the plus side, this plant is absolutely stunning when in bloom, creating dramatic vertical accents that can reach 3-6 feet tall. The flower spikes are magnets for pollinators, attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects throughout their long blooming period.
However, since orange mullein isn’t native to North America, it doesn’t provide the same ecological benefits as indigenous plants. While it’s not considered invasive, it does self-seed enthusiastically, which means you might find surprise seedlings popping up where you least expect them.
Growing Orange Mullein Successfully
The beauty of orange mullein lies partly in its simplicity. This plant is remarkably easy to grow and quite forgiving of less-than-perfect conditions.
Ideal Growing Conditions
- Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours daily)
- Soil: Well-drained soil of almost any type—it’s not fussy
- Water: Drought tolerant once established; avoid overwatering
- Climate: Hardy in USDA zones 3-9
Planting and Care Tips
Orange mullein is typically grown from seed, and it’s refreshingly straightforward. Sow seeds in late fall or early spring directly where you want them to grow. The first year, you’ll see a rosette of those characteristic fuzzy leaves at ground level. Don’t worry—the magic happens in year two when the dramatic flower spike emerges.
Once established, orange mullein requires minimal care. It’s quite drought tolerant and actually prefers not to be pampered with rich soil or frequent watering. Think of it as the strong, independent type that thrives on benign neglect.
Where Orange Mullein Shines in Your Garden
This plant works beautifully as:
- A back-of-border specimen in cottage gardens
- An architectural element in wildflower meadows
- A dramatic accent in naturalized areas
- A vertical element among shorter perennials
Consider Native Alternatives
While orange mullein can be a stunning addition to the right garden, consider exploring native alternatives that provide similar visual impact while supporting local ecosystems. Depending on your region, plants like wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa), prairie blazingstar (Liatris pycnostachya), or various native sunflowers can provide that same wow factor with added ecological benefits.
The Bottom Line
Orange mullein is like that charismatic friend who shows up unannounced but always brings something interesting to the party. It’s low-maintenance, visually striking, and attracts pollinators, making it a reasonable choice for gardeners who appreciate its bold presence. Just be prepared for its enthusiastic self-seeding habits, and consider whether a native alternative might better serve both your garden and local wildlife.
Whether you choose to welcome orange mullein into your garden or opt for native alternatives, the key is creating spaces that bring you joy while being mindful of the broader ecological picture. After all, the best gardens are those that make both gardeners and nature happy.
