What Are the Different Types of Verbena Plant

Verbena plants are popular among gardeners due to their beautiful flowers, attractive foliage, and versatility in different gardening settings. With over 250 species in the verbena family (Verbenaceae), there is a wide range of choices for those looking to add these vibrant plants to their gardens. In this article, we will explore some of the different types of verbena plants, each with its unique characteristics and growing requirements.

1. Common Verbena (Verbena officinalis)

As the name suggests, Common Verbena is one of the most well-known and widely cultivated species of verbena. It is a hardy perennial plant that can grow up to three feet tall and produces clusters of small, fragrant flowers in a variety of colors including purple, pink, and white. Common Verbena is often used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties and is known to attract butterflies and other pollinators to the garden.

2. Homestead Purple Verbena (Verbena canadensis ‘Homestead Purple’)

Homestead Purple Verbena is a popular cultivar known for its profusion of vibrant purple flowers that bloom throughout the summer. This perennial plant has a spreading habit and can reach a height and width of up to two feet. Homestead Purple Verbena is drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun, making it an excellent choice for rock gardens, borders, and containers.

3. Moss Verbena (Verbena tenuisecta)

Moss Verbena is an annual or short-lived perennial plant native to Mexico and Texas. It gets its name from its moss-like foliage, which forms a dense mat on the ground. Moss Verbena produces clusters of small, colorful flowers in shades of purple, pink, white, and red. This low-growing plant is perfect for ground cover and looks stunning cascading over walls or spilling out of hanging baskets.

4. Lemon Verbena (Aloysia citrodora)

Lemon Verbena is a deciduous shrub native to South America. It is highly prized for its lemon-scented leaves, which are often used in herbal teas, cooking, and potpourri. Lemon Verbena produces small, white or pale purple flowers, but it is primarily grown for its aromatic foliage. This shrub requires full sun and well-draining soil to thrive.

5. Brazilian Verbena (Verbena bonariensis)

Brazilian Verbena is a tall perennial plant known for its tall, slender stems that can reach up to six feet in height. It produces clusters of small purple flowers that attract butterflies and bees. Brazilian Verbena is a versatile plant that can be used as a focal point in the garden or as a backdrop for shorter plants. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

6. Creeping Verbena (Verbena canadensis)

Creeping Verbena is a low-growing perennial plant native to North America. It forms a dense mat of foliage and produces clusters of small pink or purple flowers. Creeping Verbena is an excellent choice for ground cover in sunny areas or as a trailing plant in containers or hanging baskets. It is drought-tolerant and thrives in well-drained soil.

7. Blue Vervain (Verbena hastata)

Blue Vervain, also known as Swamp Verbena, is a tall perennial plant that can reach up to five feet in height. It produces spikes of small blue or purple flowers from mid-summer to early fall. Blue Vervain is often found growing near wetlands and marshes but can also thrive in regular garden settings. It attracts butterflies and other pollinators and is a great addition to wildflower gardens.

8. Tuberous Verbena (Verbena rigida)

Tuberous Verbena is a perennial plant native to South America. It has tuberous roots and produces clusters of small purple flowers on tall stems. Tuberous Verbena is drought-tolerant and prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It is often used in rock gardens, borders, or as an accent plant in containers.

9. Sandpaper Verbena (Verbena rigida ‘Santos’)

Sandpaper Verbena, also known as Santos Verbena, is a compact perennial plant with small purple flowers and rough-textured leaves. It grows up to one foot tall and is ideal for rock gardens, borders, or containers. Sandpaper Verbena is drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun.

10. Red Valerian (Centranthus ruber)

Although not a true verbena, Red Valerian is often referred to as Jupiter’s Beard or Spur Valerian. It is a perennial plant with clusters of small red, pink, or white flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. Red Valerian is drought-tolerant and attracts butterflies and hummingbirds to the garden. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types and is commonly used in cottage gardens.

In conclusion, the wide variety of verbena plants offers something for every gardener’s taste and preferences. From the compact Sandpaper Verbena to the towering Brazilian Verbena, there are options for ground cover, borders, containers, and even attracting pollinators. Consider adding one or more of these beautiful plants to your garden to enjoy their vibrant colors and delightful fragrances throughout the growing season.