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 is a terrific companion plant for roses, lilies, and ornamental grasses.

Verbena bonariensis is hardy in zones 7-10, but it sometimes overwinters in my zone 5b 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"

Light: Full sun to part shade

Sowing Verbena bonariensis Seeds

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

Home-grown seeds.