(Verbascum thapsus) Mullein is one those plants that we see all the time on the sides of roads and in overgrown urban lots, but we don’t even notice it until it is in the context of a flower or herb garden. I can’t tell you how many people have exclaimed “What is THAT?” pointing at the mandala-like wooly leaves and 7+’ tall golden flower spike of a mullein plant in the garden by our front door. Extremely cheerful and resilient, the biennial plants throw their flowers in their second year. Great medicinal plant for the occasional ear infection as the flowers infused in olive oil are both soothing and antibacterial. Mullein has diuretic, analgesic, expectorant, and antiseptic properties. Another herb that is terrific for soothing the throat, bronchi, and lungs. Internal and external uses. Biennial. UO