Great Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a biennial plant native to the United Kingdom, belonging to the Scrophulariaceae family. It is commonly found in a variety of habitats across the UK, including grasslands, woodland edges, roadside verges, and disturbed areas such as wastelands and brownfield sites.

Great Mullein has modest nutrient requirements and thrives in well-drained soils with moderate fertility. It is adaptable to both sunny and partially shaded environments, making it a common sight in diverse landscapes throughout the UK.

In its natural habitat, Great Mullein serves as a food source for various herbivores, including caterpillars, snails, and small mammals, which may feed on its foliage. However, its thick, hairy leaves provide some defence against excessive predation.

As a biennial plant, Great Mullein completes its life cycle over two years. In the first year, it forms a rosette of large, velvety leaves close to the ground. In the second year, it sends up a tall flowering stem, which can reach heights of up to 2 meters or more, adorned with clusters of small, yellow flowers.

Culturally, Great Mullein has been used for various purposes throughout history. Its soft, downy leaves have been traditionally used as a natural tinder for lighting fires, while its flowers have been employed in herbal medicine for their purported expectorant and sedative properties.

An interesting fact about Great Mullein is its association with folklore and superstition. In traditional European folklore, it was believed that planting Great Mullein near the entrance of a home would ward off evil spirits and protect against witchcraft. Additionally, its towering flower spikes have earned it the nickname “Jacob’s Staff” in some regions.