Verbascum thapsus - Great Mullein - (Scrophulariaceae)

Great Mullein is common and widespread throughout the UK and Ireland except for the far north. It is also widespread in northern Europe and in the Mediterranean region.

Mulleins are members of the figwort family. They can grow to a height of two metres, but little more than half that height is more usual. The leaves of the great mullein are hairy, often of a downy white appearance. The individual yellow flowers are typically 25mm across and, like foxgloves, the lower flowers open first.

Great Mullein

This is a plant of dry, sunny places. These striking flowers, which can be seen in bloom from June through to August, are usually at their best in July.

Closeup of Great Mullein flowers

The pictures on this page were taken in North Wales in July.