Mullein, << MUHL uhn, >> also called mullen, is a group of mostly tall plants that form clusters of small flowers. A few hundred species (kinds) of mulleins exist. They are native to Europe and Asia, but certain mulleins often grow as weeds in other parts of the world. Some species of mulleins are also commonly cultivated as garden plants. Most kinds of mulleins are perennials, which means they live two or more growing seasons. The flowers of mullein plants have five petals and can be a variety of colors, including blue, orange, pink, purple, red, yellow, or white.
The common mullein grows to 6 feet (1.8 meters) high and has a thick, woolly stem and thick, velvety leaves. Yellow flowers grow in clusters in the form of a spike at the top of the stalk. The leaves of the common mullein were formerly used to make a tea for treating coughs, nervous disorders, and inflammations.
