Overview
Verbena rigida is a herbaceous perennial or annual, depending on species herbaceous perennial in the genus Verbena, part of the Verbenaceae family, with opposite, simple, often hairy foliage. Verbena rigida grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include borders and containers. It is native to Bolivia to Uruguay.
About
Verbena rigida is a herbaceous perennial in the Verbenaceae, valued for its long season of scented flowers. It prefers a sunny site in well-drained soil and moderate moisture. Flowering runs from June to October, making it useful where extended summer colour is wanted. It suits mixed borders and containers on a sheltered, sunny edge.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Verbena rigida
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 4.0 — Verbena
In the garden
A member of the Verbenaceae, Verbena rigida originates from Bolivia to Uruguay and is grown in the UK for its summer and autumn flowering. Plants produce numerous scented blooms between June and October, and the species is commonly used where a long display of flowers is required. Plant where it receives full sun and ensure soil drains freely; clay soils should be improved or raised beds used to reduce winter wet. Keep moisture moderate rather than consistently wet; dry spells are tolerated better than waterlogged conditions. The rating H4 (average) indicates it will generally survive UK winters in many areas, but exposed or poorly drained sites will reduce its longevity. Position Verbena rigida at the front of mixed borders or in containers on a sunny patio to take advantage of the flowering season and fragrance. Regular deadheading extends bloom time through to October. Because it flowers over several months and occupies a spreading habit, allow space for the plant to fill without overcrowding neighbours so individual flower stems remain visible.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Verbena
- Sunlight
- full sun
- Soil type
- well-drained
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- moderate
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Verbena rigida size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- herbaceous perennial
- Habit
- Herbaceous perennial or annual, depending on species
- Foliage
- Opposite, simple, often hairy
- Suggested uses
- borders, containers
- Native to
- Bolivia to Uruguay
- Fragrance
- Flower
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Verbena rigida
- Cultivation
- Grow from seed; not fully hardy in temperate climates; treat as annual in colder areas
- Pruning
- Deadhead to encourage flowering; cut back after flowering
- Propagation
- seed
- Pest resistance
- Aphids, Slugs, Snails
- Disease resistance
- Powdery mildew, Rust, Septoria leaf spot
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Verbena rigida?
Grow from seed; not fully hardy in temperate climates; treat as annual in colder areas.
Where is the best place to plant Verbena rigida?
Verbena rigida prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Verbena rigida need?
Verbena rigida grows best in well-drained soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.
How do I prune Verbena rigida?
Deadhead to encourage flowering; cut back after flowering.
Is Verbena rigida hardy in the UK?
Verbena rigida 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 rigida?
Seed.
