Verbena bonariensis, also known as Purple Top Vervain and Tall Verbena, is a perennial that is a tall and slim-stemmed plant with stunning purple flowers that grow in tight clusters, just like this one. You can expect to see Verbena bonariensis bloom in early summer and throughout the warmer months.
How to use
This fast-growing perennial is perfect for garden beds and borders in gravel and rock gardens, cottage gardens and meadow gardens. We like using it for mass plantings and amongst other bright perennials and ornamental grasses. Butterflies, bees and birds love Verbena as it’s rich in nectar and produces seeds.
Verbena in a garden bed at our Camberwell project.
Verbena in a garden bed at our Deepdene project.
How to plant
Plant Verbena bonariensis in full sun or part shade and moist, well-drained soil. As the common name suggests, Verbena is a taller than average perennial, and you can expect it to grow to 1.8m tall and 90cm wide. When planting, space your Verbena plants approx. 30cm – 45cm apart (this will depend on the pot size/ your desired look).
Companion plants
The following are great companion plants for Verbena:
- Miscanthus sinensis
- Rudbeckia
- Cosmos bipinnatus
- Agastache
- Echinops
Care and maintenance
Verbena bonariensis is very low-maintenance and is drought-tolerant once established. Given the right conditions, plants will self-seed freely, but they may need protection from frost in cooler regions. Leave dead stalks to provide winter interest and mulch annually.
