Mullein Leaf

BOTANICAL IDENTIFICATION Scientific Name: Verbascum thapsus L.Common Names: Great Mullein, Aaron’s Rod, Shepherd’s Staff, LungwortFamily: Scrophulariaceae (figwort family) Morphology:Biennial herb forming a basal rosette (Year 1: velvety, gray-green leaves up to 50 cm long) and a towering flower spike (Year 2: 1–2 m tall). Flowers are bright yellow, 5-lobed, clustered densely on the spike. Seeds are tiny capsules (0.5–1 mm). Entire plant covered in dense, stellate trichomes (hairs). Habitat & Range:Native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa; naturalized globally. Thrives in disturbed soils (roadsides, fields, wastelands). Prefers full sun and well-drained, alkaline substrates. Key Adaptations:Trichomes reduce water loss and deter herbivores. Deep taproot accesses nutrients in poor soils. CULTURAL & HISTORICAL USE Ancient & Medieval Traditions: Greek & Roman: Dioscorides prescribed leaves for lung ailments; torches made from dried stalks (Ulysses’ "moly" herb). Celtic