Moth Mullein

“What is a weed? A plant whose virtues have not yet been discovered.”
-- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Moth Mullein (Verbascum blattaria) in full bloom - early June, 2013.

One of a number of plants we now tend to view as "native", Moth Mullein is actually an invasive species originating from North Africa. The name comes from the resemblance of the central part of the flower to a moth's head. A common - though perhaps unwelcome - sight in the fringes of Ozark pasture lands, each blossom produces a fruit that is loaded with seeds -- which are popular with the local finches.

The Emerson comment on weeds is appropriate here; Moth Mullein can be used as a roach repellent. Flashback to first college apartment, anyone?

More info on V. blattaria here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Verbascum_blattaria

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Moth MulleinV. blattariaverbascum blattariascrophulariaceafigwortbiennial weedinvasive speciesmullein