Tall Verbena and Verbena Bonariensis are common perennial plants known for their clusters of vibrant lilac-colored blooms. These blooms appear atop slender, willowy stems and sway gracefully in the summer breeze. It has neat lance-shaped foliage and is a treat for any hummingbirds and butterflies that pass by, as it is full of tasty nectar. It blooms from early summer until the first frost, growing fast up to six feet in height. It has won the RHS Award of Garden Merit in recognition of its reliability and garden performance.
The genus of Tall Verbena and Verbena Bonariensis is derived from the Latin verbena, meaning “sacred branches” or “altar twigs”, referring to the use of the plant’s branches as objects of veneration in the religious rituals of ancient Romans.
How to Plant
Tall Verbena, also known as Verbena Bonariensis, should be grown in full sun and in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It does not tolerate excessive water, so it is a good idea to check the drainage of the soil before planting. The soil should have a pH level of about 6.5-7.5 and should be kept relatively moist. A light mulch of compost can help to keep the soil from drying out.
The soil should be kept relatively warm, as Tall Verbena requires temperatures of at least 15°C (59°F). The plant should be watered regularly during the growth period, but sparingly during the winter months. The plant should also receive plenty of air circulation to avoid diseases.
Meaning and Symbolism
Tall Verbena has a variety of meanings, depending on the culture. In Latin American culture, it is a symbol of strength and courage, since it blooms until the first frost. In ancient Roman culture, it was tied to religious rituals and was also considered a symbol of patience and peace due to its ability to tolerate extreme temperatures. Its clusters of vibrant blooms can be also seen to represent joy and celebration.
History, Mythology, and Religious Significance
Tall Verbena has a long history. In ancient Roman culture, it was associated with religious rituals. Its branches were used as objects of veneration and its use was seen as a way of bringing peace and goodness. In Roman mythology, the god Mercury is said to have used it to make one of his magic ointments. In the Victorian era, Tall Verbena was believed to have medicinal properties and could be used to alleviate various conditions.
Tall Verbena has also been seen to have spiritual significance. It has been seen as a symbol of patience, strength, and courage; virtues which are seen by some cultures as essential to achieving one’s spiritual goals.
Flower Varieties and Their Defining Characteristics
Tall Verbena, or Verbena Bonariensis, comes in a variety of varieties. The most common are:
- V. bonariensis: This variety has tall willowy stems and clusters of vibrant lilac-colored blooms. It grows quickly and blooms until the first frost.
- V. myriophylla: This variety has thick, leathery foliage with smaller clusters of pink and white blooms.
- V. iguanensis: This variety has medium-sized leaves and produces purple and white blooms.
Tall Verbena is a member of the Verbenaceae family and is classified as a perennial. It grows in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-9 and is native to South America.
How to Pot and Repot
Tall Verbena should be planted in a pot that is at least 10-12 inches deep and wide. The pot should have plenty of drainage holes and should be filled with potting soil that is light and well-drained. The soil should be a mixture of peat and loam, and it should be slightly acidic (with a pH level of about 6.5-7.5). The plant should be watered regularly, but it should not be subject to soggy, water-logged conditions.
Tall Verbena should be repotted on an annual basis in order to prevent it from becoming root bound. When repotting, choose a larger pot and make sure to use fresh potting soil. After repotting, the plant should be watered thoroughly and the soil should be kept slightly moist.
How to Prune
When pruning Tall Verbena, it is important to remember that it is a perennial and so pruning should be minimal in order to ensure that the plant continues to produce blooms. The best time to prune is in the late winter or early spring before the plant starts to produce new growth. The stems should be pruned down to about two inches. Any dead or damaged stems should also be removed.
How to Propagate
Tall Verbena can be propagated from cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in the summer months. The cuttings should be taken from new growth and should be four to six inches in length. The cuttings should be placed in a mixture of soil, sand, and sphagnum moss. The cuttings can then be placed in a warm location, such as a garden or a greenhouse, and then watered regularly. The cuttings should start to produce roots within three to six weeks.
Common Pests and Diseases
Tall Verbena is relatively resistant to most pests and diseases. It can be affected by root rot in poorly drained soil and by powdery mildew on overly moist plants. It can also be susceptible to aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. To prevent these pests and diseases it is important to keep the plant in an environment that has good air circulation and to keep the soil lightly moist. It is also important to remove any dead or damaged stems to prevent the spread of disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How tall will Tall Verbena get?
Tall Verbena can reach a height of six feet when fully mature.
2. How often should Tall Verbena be watered?
Tall Verbena should be watered regularly during the growth period, but sparingly during the winter months.
3. How does Tall Verbena propagate?
Tall Verbena can be propagated from cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from new growth and should be four to six inches in length. The cuttings should be placed in a mixture of soil, sand, and sphagnum moss, and then placed in a warm environment and watered regularly.
Table Fact Sheet
| Tall Verbena | Verbena Bonariensis |
|---|---|
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Mature Size | 6 feet |
| Sun Exposure | Full Sun |
| Soil Type | Well-drained, Rich in Organic Matter |
| Soil pH | 6.5 – 7.5 |
| Bloom Time | Early Summer to First Frost |
| Flower Color | Lilac |
| Hardiness Zones | 4 – 9 |
| Native Area | South America |
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