Verbascum blattaria is a non-native species, but is not classified as an invasive. It normally occurs in yellow, but may variously appear in white or pink as well. The flower stalks rise to three feet or more, covered in the upper third by flowers spaced like those of a hollyhock or mallow. It is a tough plant which grows in poor soil. In this case, it was probably introduced into the area when seeds were transported in fill dirt. Whether it survives will be determined by the presence of predatory insects which may or may not consume it. Oftentimes, introduced species never get a toehold, thanks to hungry bugs.
365Caws is now in its 14th year of publication, and was originally intended to end after 365 days. It has sometimes been difficult for me to find new material, particularly during the winter months, but now as I enter my own twilight years, I cannot guarantee that I will be able to provide daily posts. It is my hope that along the way I may have inspired someone to a greater curiosity about the natural world. If so, I can rest, content in the knowledge that my work here has been done.
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Moth Mullein, Verbascum Blattaria
Verbascum blattaria is a non-native species, but is not classified as an invasive. It normally occurs in yellow, but may variously appear in white or pink as well. The flower stalks rise to three feet or more, covered in the upper third by flowers spaced like those of a hollyhock or mallow. It is a tough plant which grows in poor soil. In this case, it was probably introduced into the area when seeds were transported in fill dirt. Whether it survives will be determined by the presence of predatory insects which may or may not consume it. Oftentimes, introduced species never get a toehold, thanks to hungry bugs.
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Edible?
ReplyDeleteIt's mildly toxic to humans and livestock.
ReplyDelete