Overview

Verbena bonariensis 'Lollipop' is a annuals, perennials, sub-shrubs perennial in the genus Verbena, part of the Verbenaceae family, with toothed or pinnately lobed leaves foliage. Verbena bonariensis 'Lollipop' 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. It is native to South America.

About

Verbena bonariensis 'Lollipop' is a tall, slender-stemmed perennial in the Verbenaceae that bears tight clusters of lavender to rose-purple flowers. It is cultivated either as a flowering annual or as an herbaceous perennial. Flowering runs from June to October. The habit produces long, terminal stems that give height and a light silhouette in planting schemes.

About the genus

Verbena, also known as vervain or verveine, is a genus in the family Verbenaceae. It contains about 150 species of annual and perennial herbaceous or semi-woody flowering plants. The majority of the species are native to the Americas and Asia; however, Verbena officinalis, the common vervain or common verbena, is the type species and native to Europe.

Wikipedia contributors, "Verbena", CC BY-SA 4.0Verbena

In the garden

Verbena bonariensis 'Lollipop' belongs to the genus Verbena within the Verbenaceae and has its roots in South American flora where similar forms occur across warm regions. In cultivation it is raised both as an annual and as a herbaceous perennial, depending on site and winter conditions. Plants characteristically carry terminal clusters of lavender to rose‑purple blooms that appear on long, slender stems. For successful display place the stems where their height will be supported by neighbouring planting or simple staking; the tall, open stems sit well at the rear of a mixed border or within a meadow-style scheme. Deadhead or lift stems as required to manage self-seeding where that is not wanted. In milder locations it can be left in the border as a perennial form, while elsewhere it is often treated as an annual. Allow space for the upright stems to rise above lower plants so the flower clusters are visible from a distance. The flowering period runs from June to October, so planning for lower and mid-height companions will make the most of its season of bloom.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Verbena

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Loam
Soil pH
Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Verbena bonariensis 'Lollipop' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Perennial
Habit
Annuals, Perennials, Sub-shrubs
Foliage
Toothed or pinnately lobed leaves
Suggested uses
Borders, Containers, Hanging baskets
Native to
South America

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Verbena bonariensis 'Lollipop'

Cultivation
Grow in well-drained soil in full sun. Suitable for borders and containers. Deadhead to prolong flowering.
Pruning
Cut back hard in early spring to encourage fresh growth.
Propagation
Seeds, Cuttings
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Verbena bonariensis 'Lollipop'?

Grow in well-drained soil in full sun. Suitable for borders and containers. Deadhead to prolong flowering.

Where is the best place to plant Verbena bonariensis 'Lollipop'?

Verbena bonariensis 'Lollipop' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Verbena bonariensis 'Lollipop' need?

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

How do I prune Verbena bonariensis 'Lollipop'?

Cut back hard in early spring to encourage fresh growth.

Is Verbena bonariensis 'Lollipop' hardy in the UK?

Verbena bonariensis 'Lollipop' 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 'Lollipop'?

Seeds, Cuttings.

More in the Verbena genus

Browse all Verbena