Fuzzy mullein is a gardener’s friend. It is a member of the snapdragon family, the flower stalk grows up to six feet high, and the leaves grow up to two feet across. the hardiness of this plant has made it an invasive species. If not, be careful it will spread unexpectantly. It pops up in these spaces for me and I did not plant it here. It is a Biennial that grows in hardiness zones 3 through 9. Zone 6 right here. And it prefers full sun and dry soil.

Mullein is an easy-to-grow plant. there are many uses for mullein it is A multi-purpose herb, mullein is credited historically with healing abilities from its flowers, leaves, and root, and also the seeds can aid in your herbal healing.

• You can brew the dried leaves into a tea
• You can extract the essential oil from these leaves
• You can mix crushed leaves into a smoking blend
• The leaves and flowers can be made into a tincture
• You can crush the seeds and mix them with water to form an anti-inflammatory paste

These herbal treatments are excellent for coughs, congestion, chest colds, bronchitis, and inflammation and so much more this plant has been used for thousands of years and the anecdotal evidence is overwhelming.

Mullein leaves are usually gathered during the first year of growth, although the second-year leaves are as effective in medicinal teas. The stalk and blossoms grow in the second year. The mullein flowers are harvested daily, as they open. The root of the mullein herb can also be harvested, but opinions vary on when the best time for root harvest may be. Many growers believe the root should be harvested when the plant's energy is highest, that would be the first year in the fall.

If you are growing for food and health, try growing mullein as a Tylenol alternative. Hey, Ivriy American is not a doctor, this information is for educational purposes only, do your research and/or seek a professional.