Common mullein is one of the most conspicuous exotic plants at Craters of the Moon. The plant was originally imported from Europe for its ornamental qualities, but soon escaped the confines of the home garden. Mullein quickly expanded its range over most of the temperate areas of North America. Common mullein is an example of how difficult it can be to eradicate a non-native species once it has become established. In the 1980s the monument staff, faced with extensive stands of these plants, decided to fight back.
Staff pulls mullein out by the roots.
Mullein expands even more rapidly because it grows well in the disturbed site left behind. Staff clips seed heads from plants. Mullein quickly grows two new seed heads to replace each lost one. Staff cuts the plant's stalk where it joins the root with a spade or applies a herbicide directly to the mullein. Mullein sprouts the following year from seeds that remain viable for up to fifty years.