This remarkable plant was discovered growing by a roadside in Scotland, and, in true Scottish fashion, is as resilient as they come.
 Verbascum 'Flower of Scotland'
Dutch plant enthusiast Dick Maas thought his eyes were deceiving him when he spied the wine-red flowers between two rocks. Typical Verbascum-shaped blooms, but on a plant just 5" tall?
He carefully removed the plant from the soil and took it back to his hotel. But it was 8 days until Dick was due to return home to The Netherlands, and during this time the plant was kept alive in moistened tissues.
6 years on, and enough plants have now been propagated from that single discovery to be introduced as a new variety. And during that time, they've never grown up!
Not only is 'Flower of Scotland's diminutive habit unique in Verbascums, it is also remarkable for having a blooming period that lasts several weeks, as the racemes continue to produce new flowerbuds.
Look out for Verbascum 'Flower of Scotland' in 2006 at your favourite PlantSpotters supplier. Supplies will be very limited, so you are advised to put in an early order! |