Verbena Plant Care: Propagation, Types, and Common Problems

Having a good home and garden aesthetic is what many people and gardeners crave. But the real issue arises with the maintenance of the plants and flowers that maintain that aesthetic. That’s where the Verbena plant, a low-maintenance fall flower, comes to the rescue. 

Now you must be wondering how to grow and propagate Verbena flowers, and what type will be suitable for your environment? But don’t worry, as by the end of this article, you’ll get answers to all your questions about the Verbena plant. 

Verbena Plant: Introduction and Origin

Commonly known as Vervain, Verbena is a species of flowering plants mainly native to tropical and subtropical Americas. However, the Verbena officinalis or common verbena is a Eurasian species. 

These plants have a distinct appearance, characterized by toothed or dissected leaves and small to medium-sized flowers. Red, pink, purple, lavender, blue, and white are the common colours of this beauty. 

One of the most attractive qualities of Verbenas is that they love insects and other pollinators. 

Also Read: 23 Best Tall Flowers for Your Garden: Top Varieties & Care Guide

Is Verbena Perennial or Annual?

Verbena flowers can be both annuals and perennials, depending on their type and species. Usually, perennial Verbena flowers survive from one growing season to the next, and annual herbaceous Verbena flowers complete their lifecycle in one growing season. 

Glandularia x hybida, formerly known as Verbena hybrida, is the most common variety of the annual Verbena plant. Verbena rigida, Verbena bonariensis, and Verbena canadensis (trailing verbena) are some varieties that are grown as perennials. 

Hardiness zone is the main factor that decides whether you can grow your Verbenas as annuals or perennials. For instance, Verbena bonariensis plants prefer a hardiness zone between 7 and 11 to grow as a perennial. 

What Does Verbena Plant Mean and Symbolize?

The word Verbena is derived from the Latin word “verbena,” symbolizing a sacred flower and branches used in ceremonies and rituals. Other than that, Verbena also symbolises enchantment, healing, protection, divine connection, and peace. 

• Enchantment – Earlier, Verbena was believed to have some magical properties and hence was used in various love spells symbolizing enchantment. 

• Healing – Due to its medicinal properties, Verbena is treated as a symbol of physical and emotional well-being and health. 

• Protection – In ancient times, it was believed that Verbena had the power to guard people against evil spirits, and hence it also symbolizes protection. 

• Divine Connection – Several legends and stories around Verbena make it a symbol of divinity. Christians believe that the flower was used to stop the bleeding from the wounds of Jesus Christ, and Egyptians believe that it came from the tears of a goddess. 

• Peace – As the flower is considered sacred and used in divine rituals, it brings peace to the soul and builds a connection with the divine power. 

Moreover, different colours of verbenas have different meanings and symbolise various emotions. 

Color	Symbolism
Blue	Peace, Tranquillity
Pink	Healing, Love
Purple	Spiritual Connection, Enchantment
White	Purification, Divine Blessing

Also Read: Polka Dot Plant Care: Explore Some Quick Fixes and Expert-Backed Advice For a Blooming Plant!

What is The Scientific Classification of Verbena Plant?

To understand the profile and structure of the Verbena plant, let us quickly go through its taxonomic and botanical structure. Plus, it’s only fair to learn about the structure of a plant that is so attractive, even after being low-maintenance. 

Botanical and Taxonomic Structure of the Verbena Plant
Kingdom	Plantae
Clade	Tracheophytes
Clade	Angiosperms
Clade	Eudicots
Clade	Asterids
Order	Lamiales
Family	Verbenaceae
Genus	Verbena
Species	V. officinalis

Also Read: Best 15+ Small Evergreen Garden Plants Perfect for Compact Spaces

How Many Species and Types of Verbena Are There?

Having more than 150 species, the Verbena plant is known for its diversity and striking appearance. Among all the types, Verbena Bonariensis plants, Rose Verbena, Moss Verbena, Verbena Hybrida, Verbena Stricta, Verbena Rigida, Verbena Hastata, and Verbena Officinalis are the 8 major species of Verbena plants. 

1. Verbena Bonariensis Plants

Most common variety of Verbena plants is Bonariensis, which are tall, upright plants with small purple flowers. Argentinian Vervain, Brazilian Verbena, Clustertop Verbena, and Purple Top are some popular names of this species. They look great in mass plantings and as cut flowers, and attract various pollinators. 

Scientific Name	Verbena Bonariensis
Hardiness Zone	7-11
Height	3-6 feet
Soil Type	Moist but well-drained
Sun/Shade Preference	Full sun
Watering Needs	Average

2. Rose Verbena

Resistant to drought, heat, and dry soil, Rose Verbena is one of the most popular varieties of trailing Verbenas. They are also known by names like Verbena Homestead Purple and sometimes even trailing Verbena itself. Its clusters of bright purple flowers, combined with glossy green leaves, create a remarkable appearance and fill the large spaces of your garden. 

Scientific Name	Verbena Canadensis or Glandularia Canadensis
Hardiness Zone	6-10
Height	10 inches-1 foot
Soil Type	Moist but well-drained
Sun/Shade Preference	Full sun
Watering Needs	Low, average

3. Moss Verbena

Generally referred to as Moss Verbena, the Aristigera variety has a long blooming season and produces flowers of pink, purple, and white colors. These plants are low-growing and spreading in nature, and hence are commonly used as ground covers. 

Scientific Name	Glandularia pulchella, or Verbena aristigera, and Verbena tenuisecta (formerly)
Hardiness Zone	7-10
Height	8 inches-1 foot
Soil Type	Well-drained loamy or sandy soil
Sun/Shade Preference	Full sun
Watering Needs	Low, average

4. Verbena Hybrida 

Commonly known as Garden Verbena, Hybrida species are the most common plants used in bedding. Grown largely as annuals but also as short-lived perennials, they have many series and flowers of blue, violet, rose, and yellow colors. 

Series – Obsession Twister series, Tuscany series, Superbena® series, and Obsession Cascade series

Scientific Name	Verbena x hybrida
Hardiness Zone	9-10
Height	6 inches-1 foot 6 inches
Soil Type	Well-drained
Sun/Shade Preference	Full sun
Watering Needs	Average

5. Verbena Stricta Plant

Commonly known as Hoary Vervain, the stricta species of Verbena has small purple and blue flowers tied to slender panicles. A top choice for indigenous plant gardens, these look amazing, especially on borders and meadows. Plus, they are an absolute favourite of butterflies and hummingbirds for their nectar. 

Scientific Name	Verbena stricta Vent
Hardiness Zone	4-7
Height	2-4 feet
Soil Type	Well-drained loamy soil
Sun/Shade Preference	Full sun
Watering Needs	Low, average

6. Verbena Rigida

The next astonishing species of Verbena is Rigada, whose fragrance can light up your mood. Rich in nectar, they attract many pollinators, with honeybees and bumblebees being a notable mention. These compact purple flowers with dark green leaves can also be grown as an annual in colder regions. 

Scientific Name	Verbena rigida Spreng
Hardiness Zone	7-10
Height	1-2 feet
Soil Type	Moist but well-drained
Sun/Shade Preference	Full sun
Watering Needs	Average

7. Verbena Hastata

Generally referred to as American Blue Vervain, the Hastata flowers are perennial Verbenas with spikes and lavender blossoms. Moreover, they have lance-shaped leaves and grow in an upright direction, and are largely resistant to diseases and pests. This variety of Verbena plants is one of the most beautiful and self-seeds.

Scientific Name	Verbena hastata L.
Hardiness Zone	3-9
Height	2-5 feet
Soil Type	Moist but well-drained
Sun/Shade Preference	Full sun
Watering Needs	Average

8. Verbena Officinalis

Usually referred to as Common Vervain or European Vervain, Officinalis has toothed leaves and spikes that carry mauve flowers. Due to their medicinal qualities and ornamental properties, they are a common choice among gardeners. Traditionally, it was used in making various medicines to reduce inflammation and cure gum diseases. 

Scientific Name	Verbena Officinalis
Hardiness Zone	7-11
Height	2-3 feet
Soil Type	Moist but well-drained
Sun/Shade Preference	Full sun
Watering Needs	Average

How to Grow And Care For Verbena Plant?

Whether you grow them in borders, garden beds, containers like pots, or hanging baskets, providing the right growing conditions, including the water needs, soil type, hardiness level, and sunlight, will boost the plant’s development, keeping it in a healthy condition. 

Complete Care Guide for Verbena Plant
Water Needs	Regular watering works best for these plants, but avoid overwatering at all costs, as it increases the risk of various fungal infections and diseases such as Pythium Root Rot.
Soil Type	Although moist, Verbena plants prefer well-drained soil, as highly wet soil can lead to root rot. Plus, the soil should also be slightly acidic in nature, with a pH level of 5.8 to 7.2.
Hardiness Level	Verbena plants require a hardiness zone of 4-11 for optimal growth. However, it is important to note that the exact hardiness level may vary, as per the specific variety of the flower.
Average Size	As they can be both spreading, low growing, and upright, the height of Verbena ranges from 6 inches to 6 feet. Also, they grow about 1-3 feet wide.
Sunlight	Verbena plants are sun lovers, so provide them with full sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day. During excessively hot summers, some shade in the afternoon can help reduce the heat strain.
Spacing	Spacing of around 12-18 inches should be provided to the plants to ensure that they can grow comfortably without feeling congested.
Fertilizer	A balanced, slow-release fertilizer works best for the Verbena plant. Also, you can consider applying a water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season.
Pruning	Prune or cut the flowers in late winter to promote their growth. Plus, deadhead the withered or spent flowers to encourage new and dense growth.

Also Read: Green Bean Plant: Major Types, Growing, and Cultivation Tips

Propagation of Verbena Plant

Growing and propagating Verbena is easier as compared to other plants. You can do this either by seeds or even the stem cuttings of the plant itself. 

Seeds

• Start by planting the seeds indoors in a seed tray or a plastic pot.
• Make sure the soil in your seed tray is able to retain moisture but is well-drained at the same time.
• Keep your pot or tray in an area where the temperature is about 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Seeds will start germinating and developing leaves after 2-4 weeks, then plant them outside under full sunlight. 

Stem Cuttings

• Cut 4-6-inch-long stems from a Verbena plant and remove its lower leaves.
• Then, take a well-drained potting mix and plant the cuttings about 1–2 inches deep.
• Cover your pot with a plastic bag and keep it in an area that receives indirect sunlight.
• Once the roots start to develop, typically after 2–4 weeks, transfer them into a larger pot and plant them outdoors. 

What Are The Common Problems With Verbenas?

Powdery Mildew, Botrytis, Pythium Root Rot, leaf discoloration, and pests like spider mites are the common diseases and problems faced by Verbena flowers. 

• Powdery Mildew – A fungal infection that leaves white spots on the foliage and stems of the flowers. This can be prevented by increasing air circulation and reducing overwatering of the plant. 

• Botrytis – Typically known as grey mold, this fungal infection attacks the leaves and stems and forms fuzzy growth on the infected parts of the plant. To prevent it from spreading, reduce overcrowding and remove the affected parts of the plant. 

• Pythium Root Rot – If you ever notice that the roots or stems of your plant have turned black or brown, immediately treat it, or else it will decay the whole plant. Improve the drainage of your soil and remove the affected parts as soon as possible. 

• Leaf Discoloration – Probably, the most common problem faced by Verbena flowers is due to inadequate watering, irregular supply of sunlight, and poor air circulation. 

• Pests – Spider mites and whiteflies are the common pests that affect the growth of your plant, and lead to various infections like yellowing of leaves, stunting, and even death of the plant. 

Also Read: Celosia Flower: How to Grow and Care?

In Nutshell

Hence, the Verbena plant is a herbaceous beauty that has various species, each with distinct properties and features. For a healthy development, effective care of Verbena plants is a must, along with providing them with optimal growing conditions. 

Plus, the growth and propagation of these low-maintenance plants is not a problem, as you can either do it with stem cuttings or with seeds. 

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