Mullein Royal 'Clementine'

Verbascum 'Clementine' is a stunning and unusual perennial that brings a touch of warmth and sophistication to the garden. It is celebrated for its tall, branching spikes of copper-orange flowers, each with a fuzzy purple centre, which appear in early to mid-summer. The flowers open sequentially up the stems, providing a long period of interest. The foliage forms a neat basal rosette of large, slightly felted, dark green leaves. Reaching a height of about 90cm to 1.2m, it is an excellent vertical accent for the middle of a border. It is a hardy (H6) but often short-lived perennial, though it may persist longer in a well-drained, sunny position with poor to moderately fertile soil. It is very drought-tolerant once established and does not appreciate overly wet or rich conditions. Like many Verbascums, it is a favourite of bees and butterflies. To encourage a second flush of flowers, the main spike can be cut back once finished. It is particularly effective in a gravel garden or a contemporary architectural planting scheme where its unique colour can be showcased.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, alkaline to neutral soil.

Hardiness: H6 — down to −20°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug.