About
A tall herbaceous perennial with erect, branching stems to 2m in height, bearing sparse, oblong leaves. Numerous branched clusters of small, lilac-purple flowers appear from summer to autumn; these are a good nectar source for pollinating insects.
About the genus
Verbena can be annuals, perennials or sub-shrubs, with toothed or pinnately lobed leaves and small, usually 5-petalled, salver-shaped flowers, typically held in spikes or panicles, in summer or autumn
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Gravel garden, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Prairie planting, Wildlife gardens, Patio and container plants
Native toSouth America
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained or well-drained, moderately fertile soil in full sun. In cold areas, protect with a dry winter mulch. May have the potential to become a nuisance due to prolific self-seeding if not well managed
PruningCut down in spring as new growth emerges from the base; deadhead in autumn if seed is not required
PropagationPropagate by seed in pots at 18-21°C in autumn to early spring or let it self-seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, thrips and leafhoppers
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews