How would I go about identifying a strange plant in my garden: straight stalk, large velvety leaves?

Last year, it came up "voluntarily" in my garden. It has a very straight, very sturdy stalk about 3 feet high, with large, velvety leafs. I didn't see any flowers, and there was no fruit. The stalk withstood the winter, and now the leaves are growing like mad. I tried to pull it, but it is a very strong plant, with good root structure - apparently not a weed. Anyone have any ideas?

How would I go about identifying a strange plant in my garden: straight stalk, large velvety leaves?
A tree, perhaps.
Reply:If you are in a hot area---it is a weed---get a shovel and give it a whack under the ground to kill it---unless you think it is cute---if you do, forget it. you did not say where you live or give a color of the leaves---all flowers were once weeds so go figure.
Reply:Try this book Jude's Herbal Home Remedies by Jude C. Williams, M.H. We are betting that this plant is mullein, used for chest congestion and infections in a tea but do not use it unless you know what you are doing. They are very common plants along the roadsides here in WI. First year plants never develop the stalk only velvety leaves. It should flower on the stalk with little yellow flowers.


It is a bi-annual and a moderately prolific plant that reseeds itself.
Reply:go to agriculture.gov SORRELLS316