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Have you ever noticed a giant plant with tiny, yel-low flowers covering a tall center spike? It is often seen growing in fields or along the highway where the soil isn’t of the best quality. It’s easily recognizable because by this time of year it’s taller than almost any of the other plants surrounding it. If you haven’t guessed its name yet, it’s time to really examine this often over-looked member of the snapdragon family. It’s time to discover the amazing mulleins (Verbascum thapsus).

As noted in my last column of July 18, the mulleins growing beside my potting shed was seven feet tall. The more than ample amounts of rain and sunshine since then have allowed that particular specimen to continue its growth until it has now reached the seven and a half foot mark on my ruler. I know this is the second year of growth because in its first year, mulleins plants form only a rosette of large, velvety leaves that can be up to one foot long.

The flower spike of the mulleins appears in the

second year of growth. The yellow flowers, which are from one quarter to one inch across, bloom from June to September. The plant produces a sap that lures insects to it. That is why plants are usually seen covered by insects gathering pollen.

Because there are so many easily scattered seeds produced in its stock, wild mulleins is usually consid-ered invasive. There are, however, several species that are grown as garden ornamentals. Among them, many beautiful and showy hybrids have been developed with yellow, purple, white, or red flowers, depending on the species.

The mullein’s velvety leaves remind me of the much smaller, purple-flowered Lamb’s ears (Stachys byzantina). The leaves of both plants are soft and fuzzy and have a greyish green color.

The Romans used mulleins’ stems dipped in tallow to make torches. Herbalists use it to make a tea used in the treatment of respiratory problems such as chest colds, bronchitis and asthma.* Mulleins also have a history of being used as a medicinal plant for its anti-septic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial properties. The fuzzy leaves are absorbent and can be turned into makeshift bandages. Modern research has confirmed that the herb has strong anti-inflammatory activity, and lab studies suggest that mullein flower infusions have antiviral properties.

Though lamb’s ear may look like a smaller version of mulleins, it is a member of the mint family. Its 18-inch flower spike also appears at this time in the summer. The leaves (which are soft and shaped like a lamb’s ear) are from two to six inches long.

Lamb’s ear also has a long history of use as a wound dressing on the battlefield. Not only do the soft, fuzzy leaves absorb blood and help it to clot more quickly, they also contain antibacterial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties.

A tea made from young, dried lamb’s ear leaves can be used to help with fevers, diarrhea, sore mouth and throat, internal bleeding, and weaknesses of the liver and heart. The juices from young leaves can be put on bee stings or other insect bites to help reduce swelling. The same treatment may be used for treat-ing hemorrhoids, or for postpartum recovery. Other medicinal uses include making an infusion used to treat pinkeye and sties.

Mulleins and lamb’s ear are not difficult to grow. Both are drought-tolerant and grow best in well-drained soil and full sun or partial shade. Wouldn’t a giant mulleins look great standing in the back or center of next year’s perennial bed? Or, consider lamb’s ear for a unique, easy-care border to contrast with bright colored annuals such as petunias or pansies. Children love to touch the soft lamb’s ear. That feature makes it a great addition to the garden space of a future gardener.

While searching the web for more ways to use the lamb’s ears, I found a couple of very crafty ideas. If you have lots of leaves at your disposal, they can be used to make a lovely dried wreath. Directions can be

Woods andGardens

with Phyllis Shemchuk

A Closer Look

found by Googling “Ed-die Zaratsian Lambs Ear wreath.” Another source showed a few leaves made into a bow for a dried flower arrangement. I’m sure there are many more uses for this unusual plant that are just waiting to be discovered. Is it too early to start making gifts for the holidays?

*To avoid problems when using any herbal remedy, get information from a reliable source.

Phyllis Shemchuk has gardened in Athol, MA for more than 30 years.