Interesting Pasture Weeds

One of the most interesting wildflowers growing in the Bon Bon Acres pasture is the Verbascum thapsus (great mullein or common mullein). Categorized as a “hairy biennial plant” it can reach heights up to six feet!

Its small yellow flowers are densely grouped on a tall stem, which grows from a large rosette of leaves. It grows in a wide variety of habitats, but prefers well-lit disturbed soils, where it can appear soon after the ground receives light, from long-lived seeds that persist in the soil seed bank. It is a common weedy plant that spreads by prolifically producing seeds.

It is widely used for herbal remedies, with well-established emollient and astringent properties. Mullein remedies are especially recommended for coughs and related problems, but also used in topical applications against a variety of skin problems. 

Not only is this plant pretty but it’s a favorite with honeybees.  Look closely at the photo and you will see one!

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