Verbenna in 6″Pot

Habit varies: upright types (e.g., V. bonariensis 1–2 m/3–6 ft) with tall, airy stems; and low, spreading/Trailing types (bedding verbenas, V. canadensis, V. rigida) 15–45 cm (6–18 in) tall, 30–90 cm (1–3 ft) wide, often trailing from containers. Stems are slender, square in cross-section, sometimes hairy. Leaves are opposite, simple, lance-shaped to ovate, toothed or lobed, rough or hairy. Flowers are tiny 5-petaled tubes (0.5–1 cm) but borne in dense, flat-topped clusters (corymbs or spikes) 5–10 cm (2–4 in) across, creating a carpet of color: shades of purple, lavender, pink, magenta, red, coral, white, and bicolors; many are fragrant. Bloom is long—late spring to first frost (often June–October). Great nectar source for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Quick care: full sun (≥6–8 hrs; 8–10 hrs ideal) for best flowering and compact habit; shade leads to legginess and mildew. Needs well-drained soil—loam or sandy loam; tolerates poor soil but not soggy or heavy clay (improve with compost/grit). pH adaptable. Water moderately: keep evenly moist during establishment, then drought-tolerant; water deeply once per week (more in containers/heat), letting the top 2–3 cm dry—avoid overhead watering. Thrives in heat (21–29 °C/70–85 °F); frost-tender bedding types are annuals; hardy perennials (e.g., V. bonariensis, V. hastata) to USDA 7–10. Feed lightly: a balanced slow-release at planting, then every 4–6 weeks; excess nitrogen gives leaves over flowers. Deadhead spent clusters (or trim back by ¼ when bloom slows) to promote repeat. Pinch young plants for bushiness. Space for airflow. Propagate by seed (indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost; light aids germination) or stem cuttings. Watch for powdery mildew (in humidity), root rot (wet soil), aphids, spider mites, whiteflies; control with airflow, neem/insecticidal soap. Use in beds, borders, rock gardens, containers, hanging baskets, and as groundcover.