VERBASCUM Dark Eyes

Description and Characteristics

Verbascum ‘Dark Eyes’ is a striking short-lived perennial or biennial, known for its tall, elegant flower spikes covered in soft yellow blooms with prominent dark purple-black centres (the "eyes"). These contrasting features make it a standout feature in sunny borders, gravel gardens, and naturalistic planting schemes.

Flowering from late spring through summer, this variety sends up upright spikes that can reach 90–120 cm tall, emerging from a low rosette of silver-grey, felted leaves. The bold spikes are loved by bees and butterflies, and the plant is particularly effective when planted in drifts or repeated through a mixed border.

‘Dark Eyes’ offers a classic cottage garden feel, yet its dramatic contrast and drought tolerance make it equally suitable for more modern and dry-style gardens.

• Tall spires of soft yellow flowers with dark central “eyes”

• Flowering time: May to August

• Height: 90–120 cm; Spread: 30–45 cm

• Silver-green, woolly basal rosette

• Perfect for wildlife gardens, dry borders, and cottage schemes

Growing Conditions and Maintenance

Verbascum ‘Dark Eyes’ is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in sunny, well-drained positions. It tolerates drought, poor soil, and neglect, making it a great choice for low-input gardens and xeriscaping.

• Light Requirements:

  • Requires full sun for optimal growth and flowering

  • Will not perform well in shade or heavy, damp conditions

• Soil Preferences:

  • Prefers well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soil

  • Tolerates dry, rocky, or sandy soils

  • Avoid rich, wet, or compacted ground to prevent root rot

• Watering Needs:

  • Water regularly during establishment

  • Once established, it is highly drought-tolerant

  • Overwatering or soggy conditions should be avoided

• Feeding:

  • Generally does not require feeding in average garden soil

  • Too much fertiliser can encourage soft, leafy growth at the expense of flowers

• Deadheading and Pruning:

  • Deadhead spent blooms to encourage a second flush of flowers

  • After flowering, cut back the stems to the base

  • If grown as a biennial, allow some flowers to set seed for future plants

• Winter Care:

  • Hardy in Zones 5–9 (RHS H5)

  • May act as a short-lived perennial or self-sowing biennial

  • In wet winters, ensure good drainage to prevent crown rot

Garden Uses, Companion Plants, and Pollinator Value

Verbascum ‘Dark Eyes’ offers vertical interest, vibrant contrast, and long-season pollinator support, making it ideal for a wide range of garden styles—from informal cottage borders to wildflower meadows and Mediterranean gardens.

• Design Applications:

  • Ideal for sunny mixed borders, gravel gardens, and wildlife-friendly plots

  • Perfect for planting in groups or drifts for dramatic effect

  • Adds height and texture without overwhelming smaller companions

• Companion Plants:

  • Pairs well with Nepeta, Salvia, Eryngium, Achillea, and Stipa tenuissima

  • Complements drought-tolerant plants like Lavandula, Dianthus, and Thymus

  • Blends beautifully with perennials and grasses in naturalistic schemes

• Pollinator Benefits:

  • A magnet for bees, hoverflies, and butterflies

  • Provides nectar and pollen over a long flowering window

  • Valuable addition to wildlife gardens and pollinator corridors

• Self-Seeding and Longevity:

  • May self-seed gently in free-draining soils if allowed to go to seed

  • Seedlings can be moved or thinned in early spring

  • Often grown as a biennial or short-lived perennial—best replanted every few years

• Pest and Disease Resistance:

  • Generally trouble-free

  • May occasionally suffer from aphids or powdery mildew—promote good airflow

  • Remove any rotting leaves in winter to prevent fungal issues

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

Click & Collect

Can’t wait for delivery? Why not try our FREE Click & Collect service? Simply make your purchase online and collect it from our store located in Croagh Co. Limerick. Our staff will contact you by phone when your order is ready for collection (Please allow 24 hours minimum). When collecting your item, call the store on 069-64084. We will then load into your car as required. This service is available in-store 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday (No collections on Sundays)

Click here for more information about our shipping conditions.

You can pay your online order either by credit card or via Paypal.
If you have any further questions about the online order payment please contact us via ­069 640 84 or mail.