Pronunciation: [mˈʌla͡ɪnz] (IPA) 
Mulleins is spelled with a double L even though the pronunciation may deceive you. The word "mulleins" refers to a genus of tall, herbaceous plants with woolly leaves and furry flowers. Despite having an "ei" in the middle of the word, it is pronounced as "mul-ins." The IPA phonetic transcription of the word "mulleins" is /ˈmʌlɪnz/, where the two Ls are pronounced with a light and distinct "ul" sound followed by the "inz."
Mulleins refer to a group of flowering plants belonging to the genus Verbascum, which are commonly known for their tall stature, erect stems, and fuzzy leaves. These plants can be found in various regions around the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. The name "mulleins" is often used to collectively describe the various species within this genus.
The mulleins typically feature large, broad, and ovate leaves that are covered in a dense layer of fine hairs, giving them a fuzzy or woolly appearance. The leaves are arranged in a basal rosette pattern at the plant's base, with the flowering stem rising from the center. Mulleins are biennial or perennial plants known for their impressive floral spikes, which can reach heights of up to several feet.
The flowers of mulleins are generally five-petaled and may come in a range of colors, including yellow, white, pink, or purple. The blossoms are densely packed along the elongated spike, creating a visually striking display. Mulleins are often cultivated for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes due to their captivating flowers and unique foliage.
While mulleins are primarily admired for their aesthetic qualities, they also hold historical significance. Certain species have been used for medicinal purposes in traditional herbal practices, as their leaves were believed to possess expectorant and soothing properties. Additionally, mulleins are valued for their ability to attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, making them a popular choice for ecological gardens.
The word "mulleins" has a complex etymology with multiple sources. It ultimately derives from the Latin word "mollis", which means soft or easily crumbled. In Latin, it was originally used to refer to a specific plant known as "Verbascum thapsus", which is commonly known as common mullein or woolly mullein. The Latin word "mollis" eventually developed into Old English as "molene", referring specifically to the plant.
However, the word also has additional roots in other Germanic languages. The Old Norse word "mykla" and Old High German word "mucal" both meant "soft" or "tender", likely influenced the development of the word in English. In fact, some English dialects still refer to mullein plants as "micklemore" or "mickel".
