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Verbascum ‘Sugar Plum’

Verbascum 'Sugar Plum'

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This dwarf mullein is just 15 inches tall but it packs a big floral punch. In early spring, violet-purple flowers with dark purple anthers emerge unfazed by late frosts and continue into the summer.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsIndividual flowers are short-lived but numerous, and flowering takes place over a long time. Self-sown seedlings vary slightly from the parent cultivar, thus creating welcome surprises. Most species are found on dry, stony hillsides and open woodlands, but are well-adapted to cottage, gravel, and rock gardens, or naturalized areas with well-drained soil.

CareProvide well-drained soil and full sun. Deadhead to prolong bloom. Verbascums tend to flop in fertile soil.

PropagationSow seeds in spring in containers in a cold frame. Divide in spring.

ProblemsPowdery mildew and other fungal leaf spots. Caterpillars. Crown rot in wet winters or where soil is poorly drained.

  • Genus : Verbascum
  • Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
  • Zones : 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
  • Plant Width : 6 to 12 inches
  • Uses : Containers
  • Tolerance : Deer Tolerant, Drought Tolerant, Frost Tolerant
  • Moisture : Dry to Medium
  • Bloom Time : Early Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Spring, Summer
  • Light : Full Sun
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Growth Rate : Moderate
  • Plant Type : Perennials
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest

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