(Verbascum 'Sugar Plum') ver-BASS-kum Genus:  Verbascum 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 Characteristics:  Individual 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. Care:  Provide well-drained soil and full sun. Deadhead to prolong bloom. Verbascums tend to flop in fertile soil. Propagation:  Sow seeds in spring in containers in a cold frame. Divide in spring. Problems:  Powdery mildew and other fungal leaf spots. Caterpillars. Crown rot in wet winters or where soil is poorly drained.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 6 in. to 12 in. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Butterflies, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Early Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Spring, Summer Flower Color Purple Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Suitable as Annual Style Cottage Garden, Rock Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Tolerance Deer Tolerant, Drought Tolerant, Frost Tolerant Type Perennials