Plant FAQs: Verbena Bonariensis – Purpletop Vervain

Verbena Bonariensis, also known as “Tall Verbena” or “Purpletop Vervain,” is a stunning perennial plant known for its tall, wiry stems and clusters of small, purple flowers. This plant originates from South America and is a favorite in cottage gardens and wildlife-friendly spaces due to its airy structure and attractiveness to pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Caring for Verbena Bonariensis is relatively easy. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Regular watering during dry spells helps it maintain its vigor, but it’s fairly drought-tolerant once established. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in spring can promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.

You can propagate Verbena Bonariensis through seeds or cuttings. Collect seeds from the dried flower heads in late summer or early fall. Sow them indoors in early spring, or directly outdoors after the last frost. Cuttings can also be taken in late spring or early summer from non-flowering stems.

Yes, deadheading Verbena Bonariensis encourages the plant to produce more flowers. Simply remove the spent flower heads by cutting them back to the nearest leaf node. This can be done throughout the growing season to prolong its blooming period.

In late autumn or early spring, you should cut back Verbena Bonariensis to about 6 inches (15 cm) above ground level. This helps promote fresh growth for the next season while keeping the plant tidy during winter.

Verbena Bonariensis is generally considered non-toxic to dogs. However, it’s always best to prevent pets from chewing on plants as a precaution, as some individuals may have sensitivities.

Yes, Verbena Bonariensis is a perennial in USDA zones 7-11. In cooler regions, it’s often grown as an annual, though it may self-seed and return the following year.

Absolutely! Verbena Bonariensis grows well in pots as long as the container has good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix, and water consistently to prevent the soil from drying out completely. A tall container works best to complement its height.

While Verbena Bonariensis is not typically grown indoors, you can start seeds indoors in early spring for transplanting outdoors later. Its size and need for sunlight make it better suited to outdoor spaces.

Verbena Bonariensis offers several benefits. It’s a magnet for pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Its tall, airy stems add vertical interest to garden beds without overpowering neighboring plants. Additionally, it’s low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established.

Verbena Bonariensis is relatively trouble-free but can sometimes face issues like powdery mildew or root rot if grown in poorly drained soil. Aphids may occasionally be a problem but are easily managed with insecticidal soap or by encouraging natural predators like ladybugs.

Verbena Bonariensis pairs beautifully with grasses like Miscanthus or Stipa, as well as other perennials like Echinacea, Rudbeckia, and Salvias. Its tall, see-through structure makes it an excellent companion plant in mixed borders.

Unlike low-growing verbena varieties like Verbena rigida or Verbena canadensis, Verbena Bonariensis stands out for its height and airy growth habit. Its flowers are smaller but bloom for a long period, making it ideal for naturalistic and wildlife-friendly garden designs.

Verbena Bonariensis is not known to be toxic to humans. However, it’s always advisable to handle plants with care, as some people may experience skin irritation from prolonged contact.