Verbena bonariensis

Verbena bonariensis blooms the first year from seed. The tall stems are topped with clusters of rosy-purple flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. It is a host plant for the Common Buckeye butterfly.

Nearly every garden design book I've read mentions Verbena bonariensis. It's a terrific companion plant for roses, lilies, and ornamental grasses.

Verbena bonariensis is hardy in zones 7-10, but it often overwinters in my zone 5 garden. Grow it as a self-sowing annual in colder regions. It is very vigorous and may be considered invasive in warm zones.

height 4-5' spacing 15"

Sowing Verbena bonariensis Seeds

Start seeds indoors in late winter. Sow on the surface, then refrigerate for 5 weeks. Full sun to part shade. Slow to germinate.

Home-grown seeds.