Mullein-foxglove

About Mullein-foxglove

Mullein-foxglove is a fascinating and architectural summer annual or biennial that commands attention with its tall, stately presence and bright floral display. Reaching impressive heights of 3 to 7 feet, this plant features large, deeply lobed leaves and fuzzy stems that resemble common mullein. From June to September, it produces clusters of buttery yellow, bell-shaped flowers with 'woolly' interiors. Native to the savannas and open woodlands of the Midwest and Southeast, it occupies a unique ecological niche as a hemiparasite, drawing some nutrients from the roots of oak trees without harming them. This relationship makes it a vital component of healthy oak-hickory ecosystems. Its nectar-rich blooms are a magnet for bumblebees and other long-tongued bees. For the best results, plant Mullein-foxglove in partial shade to full sun in medium-moisture soil, ideally near established oaks to support its natural growth cycle and enjoy its dramatic mid-summer bloom.