Giant Silver Mullein 'Polarsommer'

Verbascum bombyciferum 'Polarsommer' (also known as 'Arctic Summer') is a spectacular biennial or short-lived perennial that provides height and high drama. In its first year, it forms a massive, impressive rosette of large, oval leaves that are entirely covered in a thick, white, woolly felt, giving them a distinct silvery appearance. In its second year, it sends up a towering, multi-branched flower spike, which can reach up to 2 metres in height. This spike is also woolly and becomes encrusted with bright, primrose-yellow flowers that open in succession over several weeks. Native to Turkey, it is perfectly suited to the Mediterranean style. It is hardy (H4) but requires full sun and very well-drained soil; excessive winter wet is its main enemy. It often self-seeds in dry, gravelly areas, ensuring a continued presence in the garden. It is an architectural masterpiece that serves as a fantastic focal point in a sunny border or gravel garden.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Poor, well-drained soil; chalk-tolerant.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug.