File:Дивина олімпійська DSCF5608.jpg

English: Greek mullein (Verbascum olympicum Boiss.) from the genus Mullein (Verbascum L.) of the family Figwort (Scrophulariaceae Juss.)

Greek mullein, also known as Olympic Greek mullein or Verbascum olympicum, is a special species of mullein native to southern Greece and the Olympus Mountains in Turkey. It is often described as imposing or statuesque due to its impressive growth pattern. The plant can reach a height of 6 ft and forms a strong rosette of leaves with gray-tomentose hairy leaves in the first year². In the second year, a richly branched inflorescence, reminiscent of a candlestick, emerges from the middle of the leaf rosette. The plant's foliage is evergreen and beautiful. The silvery felted leaves grow in broad rosettes low to the ground, almost like succulents. Each leaf can grow to a foot long and 5 inches wide. Greek mullein flowers grow on spikes from the center of the basal leaves. The yellow blossoms grow thick and fast in summer, giving the Greek mullein plant the look of a blooming chandelier. The flowers remain on the stalks most of the summer, often all the way through September. They attract many pollinators, including bees and butterflies.

Growing Olympic Greek mullein is not difficult if you plant the long-lived flowers appropriately and in the right spot. Direct sow the Olympic Greek mullein seeds in late summer or early fall in a garden spot with full sun and well-drained soil. If you plant in autumn, cover the seeds with a very thin layer of garden soil and a layer of organic mulch. You can also start the seeds inside in spring. Greek mullein care is not difficult in USDA plant hardiness zones 5 through 9. They grow in acidic or alkaline soil. Provide regular water while they are developing. Once the plants are established, they require little water.

English: Olympic wonder of the first year near Lake Nar, Turkey.