Verbena bonariensis — Clump-forming, columnar upright

Overview

Verbena bonariensis is a plant with a clump-forming, columnar upright habit in the genus Verbena, part of the Verbenaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Verbena bonariensis grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include borders, containers and hanging baskets.

About

Verbena bonariensis, commonly known as the purpletop vervain, clustertop vervain, Argentinian vervain, tall verbena or pretty verbena, is a member of the verbena family cultivated as a flowering annual or herbaceous perennial plant. In United States horticulture, it is also known by the ambiguous names purpletop and South American vervain.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Verbena bonariensis

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Verbena

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Loam
Soil pH: Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: South-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H4

Plant details

Verbena bonariensis size, habit and characteristics

Habit: Clump-forming, columnar upright
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: Borders, containers, hanging baskets

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Verbena bonariensis

Propagation: Seed, semi-ripe cuttings, division
Pest resistance: Generally pest-free
Disease resistance: Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Verbena bonariensis?

Verbena bonariensis prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Verbena bonariensis need?

Verbena bonariensis grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Verbena bonariensis hardy in the UK?

Verbena bonariensis has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Verbena bonariensis?

Seed, semi-ripe cuttings, division.

More in the Verbena genus

Browse all Verbena →