Top 100 Gift Ideas For Plant Lovers 2024
A Gardener’s Guide to Verbena: From Fragrant Tea to Butterfly Bonanza
Verbena has become a mainstay in my garden. Its cheerful blooms and easy-going nature make it a true delight. But beyond its aesthetics, this versatile plant offers a surprising number of benefits. Let’s delve into the world of verbena, exploring its characteristics, care requirements, and the many reasons to add it to your own garden.
Is Verbena Deer Resistant?
Yes, absolutely! Deer tend to avoid verbena, likely due to the presence of iridoid glycosides, which are mildly distasteful to them. This makes verbena a perfect choice for gardens plagued by deer browsing.
What Does Verbena Smell Like?
Most verbena varieties have little to no fragrance. However, lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora) is a delightful exception. As the name suggests, its leaves boast a refreshing lemon scent that intensifies when crushed. This fragrant foliage makes lemon verbena a popular choice for herbal teas and potpourris.
Is Verbena Toxic to Cats?
While not deadly, verbena can cause mild stomach upset in cats if ingested in large quantities. The essential oils in the leaves might irritate their digestive system. If you have curious felines around, it’s best to plant verbena in hanging baskets or containers out of their reach.
How to Propagate Lemon Verbena?
Propagating lemon verbena is a breeze. Take stem cuttings about 4-6 inches long in late spring or early summer. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional). Plant the cuttings in a pot filled with moist potting mix and place them in a warm, well-lit location. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and you should see new growth within a few weeks.
Do Hummingbirds Like Verbena?
Absolutely! The vibrant colors and small, nectar-rich flowers of verbena are irresistible to hummingbirds. Planting verbena around your garden is a surefire way to attract these delightful pollinators.
How to Grow Verbena from Seed?
Verbena seeds are readily available and relatively easy to germinate. Start them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Sow the seeds on top of moist potting mix and press them gently into the soil. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide warmth using a heat mat (optional). Once the danger of frost has passed, harden off the seedlings and transplant them outdoors to their permanent location.
Does Verbena Need to Be Deadheaded?
Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, is not strictly necessary for verbena’s survival. However, it encourages continuous blooming throughout the season. Simply pinch off the wilted flower heads just below the base of the flower stalk. This will prevent seed formation and keep your verbena plants looking their best.
Is Verbena Edible?
Yes, both the leaves and flowers of verbena are edible. The leaves of lemon verbena, as mentioned earlier, are perfect for teas and culinary applications. However, the flavor of other verbena varieties can be slightly bitter. The flowers can be used as a colorful garnish for salads, desserts, and cocktails.
Do Bees Like Verbena?
Verbena’s bright blooms and abundant nectar make them a magnet for bees and other pollinators. Planting verbena not only beautifies your garden but also supports the vital ecosystem services provided by these essential insects.
Beyond the Basics: Planting Partners and Care Tips
Verbena thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It’s relatively drought-tolerant once established but appreciates occasional watering during hot, dry spells. Verbena pairs beautifully with other sun-loving plants like petunias, marigolds, and salvias, creating a vibrant and colorful display.
With its diverse forms, easy care, and pollinator-friendly nature, verbena is a true garden gem. From fragrant teas to a butterfly bonanza, this versatile plant offers something for everyone. So, why not add a touch of verbena magic to your own garden and experience its beauty firsthand?
