moth mullein

American  

noun

1. a weedy, European mullein, Verbascum blattaria, of the figwort family, having lance-shaped leaves and loose spikes of white or yellow flowers.

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Etymology

Origin of moth mullein

First recorded in 1570–80; from its mothlike appearance

Example Sentences

Of the survivors, 21 are moth mullein, one is another type of Verbascum and the last a variety of the Malva species that had not sprouted since 1899.

From Time Magazine Archive

A decade later, one hardy weed survived: Verbascum blattaria or moth mullein.

From Time Magazine Archive

"A favorite of mine is the little moth mullein that blooms along the highway, and about the fields, and maybe upon the edge of the lawn."

From Wild Flowers An Aid to Knowledge of Our Wild Flowers and Their Insect Visitors by Blanchan, Neltje

That the moth mullein is of no use except that it will attract moths wherever it is laid.

From The Old English Herbals by Rohde, Eleanour Sinclair

In the same localities may be found the St. John's Wort, with its numerous little flowers, and both the moth mullein and common mullein.

From Woodcraft or, How a Patrol Leader Made Good by Douglas, Alan