Guide for Cultivating Verbena Bonariensis, Also Known as Purpletop Vervain or Tall Verbena
The Verbena bonariensis, a beautiful perennial plant known for its clusters of small purple flowers on long, stiff stems, is a popular choice for garden enthusiasts. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to grow and care for this enchanting plant.
Firstly, it's essential to note that the plant prefers full sunlight to grow well. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and is drought tolerant, making it a low-maintenance addition to any garden.
Once you've planted your Verbena bonariensis, give them light and plenty of moisture. The height of these plants can range from 1.5 to 5 feet (0.5-1.5m), with a spread of 1.5 to 3 feet (0.5-0.9m). If you're growing the Lollipop variety, which only grows to about 1.5 feet (0.5m) tall, it's an ideal choice for container growing and compact plots.
For the best results, start seeds undercover two to three months before the last frost is forecast. Once the danger of frost has passed, you can plant them outside. However, it's crucial to remember that the plant is not frost-tolerant and should not be planted outside before the last frost date.
As for maintenance, you won't need to carve out a regular pruning routine to maintain the shape of purpletop vervain plants. Just cut back old growth in early spring as new growth appears. Deadheading flowers in the autumn can be done if not collecting seeds, as allowing some flowers to stay on the plant and collecting the seeds is a reliable way of propagating verbena plants for next year's summer displays.
While the plant is generally hardy, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew. This is rare, but can be prevented by ensuring adequate airflow. In milder climates, the plant is a perennial, while in colder regions, it is an annual.
Lastly, germination of verbena seeds can be enabled by keeping them in the dark. For more specific information about growing Verbena bonariensis, it might be helpful to consult gardening books or online resources. While we couldn't find specific information about the region where author Mary Ellen Ellis lives, she is known for her expertise in gardening, having written several books on the subject.
