Verbascum ‘Helen Johnson’, commonly known as Mullein, is a captivating perennial that adds a striking vertical presence to garden spaces with its distinctive flower spikes.
Discovering Verbascum ‘Helen Johnson’
Verbascum ‘Helen Johnson’ stands out with its tall, elegant flower spikes, adorned with numerous individual blossoms. These spires present a unique blend of apricot, copper, and soft rose tones, creating a luminous effect when bathed in sunlight. The flowers often open as peach and fade to a rusty orange, sometimes displaying purple eyes at their centers.
The plant typically reaches 2 to 3 feet in height, with flower stalks extending up to 4 feet. Its basal rosette of foliage spreads 18 to 24 inches wide. Flowering generally occurs from late spring through mid-summer, providing an extended period of color. This cultivar is known for its consistent performance and unique, warm color palette.
Its vertical structure adds architectural interest, creating a strong focal point in garden beds. Its slender form fits various planting schemes without overpowering adjacent plants. The distinctive color blend offers a sophisticated touch, serving as an excellent backdrop or graceful element in mixed borders and cottage gardens.
Essential Care for Verbascum ‘Helen Johnson’
Light Requirements
Verbascum ‘Helen Johnson’ thrives in full sun, requiring a minimum of six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and abundant flowering. Insufficient light leads to leggy, weak growth and reduced flower production. A consistently sunny spot ensures strong stems and vibrant flower colors.
Soil Preferences
Well-draining soil is paramount for the health and longevity of Verbascum ‘Helen Johnson’. It prefers soil that is lean to moderately fertile, avoiding overly rich conditions, which can sometimes lead to excessive foliage at the expense of flowers. A neutral to slightly alkaline pH, ideally between 6.5 and 7.5, supports robust root development. Heavy clay soils that retain excessive moisture should be amended with grit or organic matter to improve drainage, as the plant struggles in perpetually wet conditions.
Watering Practices
During its establishment phase, consistent moisture helps Verbascum ‘Helen Johnson’ develop a strong root system. Water newly planted specimens deeply once or twice weekly, allowing the top few inches of soil to dry between waterings. Once established, the plant exhibits considerable drought tolerance, suitable for drier conditions.
Supplemental watering is only necessary during prolonged dry spells. Overwatering quickly leads to root rot. Monitor soil moisture carefully to prevent soggy conditions. Deep, infrequent watering encourages extensive root development, making the plant more resilient.
Fertilization Needs
Verbascum ‘Helen Johnson’ is not a heavy feeder and generally requires minimal fertilization. Applying excessive nutrients can promote lush foliage growth at the expense of flower production, diminishing its ornamental appeal. If soil fertility is very low, a light application of a balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer in early spring may be considered. However, in most average garden soils, additional feeding is often unnecessary for this plant to flourish.
Pruning and Deadheading
Deadheading, the removal of spent flower spikes, encourages a second flush of blooms, extending the display. Cut faded stalks back to just above a healthy leaf or side shoot to stimulate new growth and prevent unwanted self-seeding. Remove any yellowing or damaged basal leaves for a tidy appearance.
After the final flush, cut the entire flower stalk back to the basal rosette. This redirects energy into developing a stronger root system for the next season, maintaining vigor and minimizing fungal issues by improving air circulation.
Propagating Verbascum ‘Helen Johnson’
Verbascum ‘Helen Johnson’ is a hybrid, and while some sources suggest it can be propagated by seed, others note that hybrids may not come true from seed or can be sterile. If attempting from seed, collect ripened seeds from spent flowers in late summer or early autumn. Sow these seeds in pots indoors in late winter or early spring, providing light for germination, which typically takes 10-14 days. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost once they have developed several true leaves.
A more reliable method for reproducing ‘Helen Johnson’ true to type is through root cuttings. In late autumn or early spring, when the plant is dormant, carefully lift the plant and snip two or three sections of root close to the crown. Plant these root sections in a well-draining rooting medium, ensuring good humidity. Keep the medium consistently moist until roots develop, then gradually accustom the young plants to outdoor conditions.
Addressing Common Challenges
Mullein moth larvae (Cucullia verbasci) can occasionally feed on the foliage, causing unsightly holes. Hand-picking these yellow and black striped caterpillars can effectively manage small infestations.
Spider mites might appear during hot, dry periods, leading to stippled leaves and fine webbing. Hosing down affected plants with a strong stream of water can help dislodge spider mites.
Powdery mildew, appearing as white, powdery spots on leaves, can occur in humid conditions with poor air circulation. Ensuring adequate spacing between plants and watering at the base rather than overhead helps prevent this fungal issue.
Root rot is a significant concern, primarily stemming from overly wet or poorly draining soil. The best prevention for root rot involves providing excellent drainage and avoiding overwatering. Promptly addressing any signs of distress helps maintain the plant’s health.