Definition

Noun: 1. A specific flowering plant: A tall, woolly plant (Verbascum thapsus or related species) with a long, straight stalk and densely packed yellow flowers. Historically, its dried stalks were used as torches.

Usage and Examples

• As a common noun for the plant:
  • The field was dotted with the bright yellow spikes of Aaron's rod.
  • Aaron's rod, also known as common mullein, is a biennial plant.

Advanced Usage

• Historical/Literary Reference: The name directly references the biblical Aaron, whose staff (or rod) miraculously budded, symbolizing divine authority (Numbers 17:8). The plant's tall, straight, rod-like appearance led to this common name.
  • The use of Aaron's rod for funeral torches connects the plant's practical use to themes of ceremony and remembrance.

Variants and Related Words

• Common Mullein (n): The most frequent common name for .
• Great Mullein (n): Another synonym for the same plant.
• Torchweed (n): A historical name referencing its use in making torches.

Synonyms

• Flannel leaf
• Shepherd's club

Notes on Meaning

• Primary Meaning: In botany and general English, "Aaron's rod" almost exclusively refers to the tall, woolly mullein plant.
• Biblical Artifact: In religious or artistic contexts, "Aaron's rod" (often capitalized) can refer to the miraculous staff of the biblical figure Aaron itself, not the plant. The plant is named for its resemblance to this rod.
  • The painting depicted Aaron holding his rod before Pharaoh. (Refers to the biblical staff)
  • We gathered Aaron's rod from the hillside. (Refers to the plant)

Noun

1. tall-stalked very woolly mullein with densely packed yellow flowers; ancient Greeks and Romans dipped the stalks in tallow for funeral torches