Verbascum ‘Pink Domino’: A Delightful Perennial with Abundant Pink Blooms
Verbascum ‘Pink Domino’ is an enchanting perennial cultivar known for its low-maintenance nature and impressive floral display. This variety is a reliable performer, producing multiple flower spikes throughout the summer, reaching heights of nearly 5 feet. It belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family, commonly known as the figwort family. This family includes a diverse group of flowering plants, including herbs, shrubs, and even a few trees.
The cheerful, open-faced pink flowers emerge in succession, ensuring an extended blooming period. By deadheading spent blooms, gardeners can encourage the plant to produce even more flower spikes, further prolonging its vibrant show. Resilient and easy to grow, Verbascum ‘Pink Domino’ can reseed itself for future generations, making it a valuable addition to any garden. Its preferred growing conditions include well-drained soil and ample sunlight.
Characteristics
Verbascum ‘Pink Domino’ features felted, silver-grey rosettes of large leaves that lend a unique visual appeal to the plant. This perennial cultivar is adorned with tall spires of rose-pink flowers, creating a striking presence in any sunny mixed or herbaceous border. Additionally, it is suitable for container gardening.
Cultivation of Verbascum ‘Pink Domino’:
To ensure the successful cultivation of Verbascum ‘Pink Domino’, specific aspects of care should be considered. The following subsections provide detailed guidelines for optimal cultivation practices:
Sunlight: Plant Verbascum ‘Pink Domino’ in an area that receives full sun. While it can tolerate partial shade, providing ample sunlight will result in the best growth and flowering.
Watering: During the active growth period, water Verbascum ‘Pink Domino’ regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. However, avoid overwatering, as this perennial can tolerate some drought. In winter, reduce watering to approximately once a month.
Soil: Well-drained soil is essential for the healthy development of Verbascum ‘Pink Domino’. It thrives in neutral to alkaline soil conditions. Ensure proper drainage to prevent issues such as root rot.
Pest and Disease: Verbascum ‘Pink Domino’ is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to damage from the caterpillars of the mullein moth (Cucullia verbasci), which can cause unsightly holes in the foliage. Placing the plant towards the center of the border or growing wild verbascums nearby can help divert the caterpillars to those plants.
Propagation:
There are several methods for propagating Verbascum ‘Pink Domino’:
- Seed: Sow the seeds in spring or fall, as they require light to germinate. Scatter the seeds on the soil surface and gently press them down. Germination typically occurs within 2-4 weeks.
- Division: Divide the plant in spring or fall by carefully digging it up and separating it into several sections. Each section should have a few roots and leaves. Plant the divisions in individual pots or directly in the garden.
- Cuttings: Take softwood cuttings in spring or early summer. Cut a 4-6 inch section of stem from the current season’s growth, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in the rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with moist potting mix and place it in a warm, well-lit location. Keep the potting mix consistently moist but not waterlogged. Rooting should occur within 4-6 weeks.
Additional Care Tips:
- Regular deadheading of spent flowers will encourage Verbascum ‘Pink Domino’ to produce more blooms and extend its flowering season. Simply pinch off the faded flowers with your fingers.
- In colder climates (USDA zones 4-9), protect Verbascum ‘Pink Domino’ from frost by covering it with a burlap sack or other protective material.
- While Verbascum ‘Pink Domino’ is a captivating perennial, it may be short-lived. However, it reliably reseeds itself, ensuring the continuation of this delightful plant in your garden.
With its low-maintenance requirements and abundant pink blooms, Verbascum ‘Pink Domino’ is a charming addition to any garden or container. By providing the right conditions and following proper care practices, you can enjoy the beauty and resilience of this exceptional perennial cultivar.
