Common Mullein

Common mullein is a densely woolly, sturdy biennial that may reach more than 7 feet (2 m) tall in its flowering year. Annual and triennial forms occasionally occur. A basal rosette of large furry leaves and a substantial crown are produced in the first year [10]. In the second year, common mullein typically produces a single, stout (>1 cm thick), erect flowering stem. One or more erect branches near the base of the inflorescence are normal. Basal leaves are simple, measure 3 to 20 inches (8-50 cm) long, and may be persistent. Stem leaves are alternate, and their size is reduced toward the inflorescence. The thick coating of branched hairs on the stems and leaves breaks the force of surface winds and prevents water loss to evaporation.