Common Mullein

A Mature Plant

Common mullein is that tall thing you see growing in open areas during the summer. It looks like a tall, thin ear of corn with yellow flowers on the stalk and fuzzy leaves. It prefers dry sandy soil and is drought resistant.

It looks like it should be a rare, native plant. However it is a non-native species introduced from Europe and Asia. It was brought to Virginia in the mid 1700s as fish poison. Supposedly early settlers used the fuzzy leaves of this non-native plant to line their shoes and boots.

The plant quickly spread to other areas of the country.

Also known as wooly mullein, threatens natural meadows and forest openings. It is considered invasive since it can overtake other native plants.

Pull it out if you see it growing on your property.

Return from Common Mullein to Yellow Wildflowers

NW Ohio Nature Oak Leaf

Common Mullein

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