Verbena

Overview

A versatile genus that includes both the low, spreading ornamentals that blanket gardens in color and the upright, lemon-scented species used in herbal tea. Garden verbena produces clusters of flowers in every color, blooming prolifically from spring through frost with minimal care. Lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora) is the fragrant culinary species — they are different plants despite sharing a name.

Verbena (Verbena spp.) is a diverse genus within the family Verbenaceae, encompassing approximately 150 species of herbaceous or semi-woody flowering plants. Native to the Americas, Asia, and Europe (with Verbena officinalis being the European native), these plants are known for their adaptability and versatility in various gardening contexts.

Appearance

Members of Verbena typically exhibit a bushy, mounded growth habit, with stems that may become woody over time. The leaves are opposite, simple, and vary in shape from lanceolate to ovate, often featuring serrated or toothed margins. Leaf sizes can range from small to medium, depending on the specific species.

The most distinguishing feature of Verbena plants is their inflorescences, which are typically spike-like or panicle-like arrays of small, nectar-rich flowers. These flowers are usually tubular and arranged in whorls or verticils around the stem. The color palette of Verbena flowers is quite diverse, with species available in shades of purple, pink, white, red, and even yellow.

Growing Conditions and Care

Like other Verbena species, this plant genus is known for its hardiness and adaptability to various growing conditions. While specific hardiness zones may vary by species, many Verbena plants are well-suited to USDA Hardiness Zones 4-9. They can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from well-draining loams to sandy soils, as long as the pH is not too alkaline (preferring slightly acidic to neutral conditions).

Ecological Significance

The blooming period for Verbena species can span several months, depending on the specific cultivar and growing conditions. In general, Verbena plants are prolific bloomers, attracting a wide variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Due to their robust nature and attractive flowers, Verbena plants have become popular in various garden settings, from borders and beds to containers and hanging baskets. They are often used for mass plantings, ground covers, or as filler plants in mixed combinations with other perennials or annuals.

In summary, Verbena (Verbena spp.) is a diverse genus of flowering plants known for their hardiness, adaptability, and attractive blooms. With over 150 species to choose from, gardeners can find a wide range of options to suit various growing conditions and design preferences.

Growing Conditions

Habitat & Range

Habitat

Meadows & Open Areas

Native Range

Native to Arizona; also native to El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and 7 more regions

Cultivation Region

Temperate regions

Botanical data via projectGAIA.

Companion Planting & Soil

Planting Calendar

When to sow, transplant, and harvest by growing zone.

Uses

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