Mullein Seeds

Mullein grows a low rosette of soft leaves before sending up a tall flower stalk, usually in its second year. The flowers are yellow.

Packet: at least 50 seeds

Planting at a glance

• Season: Biennial flower
• Start: Direct sow or start in a protected tray in spring
• Seed depth: Surface sow and press in; light is needed
• Germination: Keep warm and moist in the light; timing varies with conditions
• Final spacing: Allow about 18–24 inches for the rosette and tall flower stalk
• Light: Full sun
• Harvest planning: Usually a rosette in the first year and a tall flowering stalk in the second

When to plant

Plant during your local cool growing season. In colder regions, use spring or late-summer/fall sowings and allow enough growing time before hard freezes.

How to plant

1. Prepare loose, well-drained soil or a clean seed-starting mix. Direct sow or start in a protected tray in spring.
2. Surface sow and press in; light is needed. Keep the seedbed evenly moist until seedlings emerge. Then water when the soil needs it, allowing excess water to drain.
3. Thin or transplant to the listed final spacing. Give seedlings sufficient light and check moisture as roots establish.

How to harvest

Enjoy the tall flower stalk in place. Remove seed heads before ripening if you want to limit spreading.

Aunt E’s tip: Plan space for the second-year stalk, not just the first-year rosette.