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Description
Verbena Bonariensis is a perennial plant that is native to South America. It belongs to the Verbenaceae family and is also referred to as Purpletop, Tall Verbena, and Argentine Verbena. The plant is known for its tall and slender stems that grow up to 3-6 feet in height. It produces clusters of small, tubular flowers that are lavender to purple in color and bloom from midsummer to mid-fall. The plant has a long blooming season, making it a popular choice among gardeners.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliophyta |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Genus | Verbena |
Appearance
Verbena Bonariensis is a tall, slender plant with thin stems that grow up to 3-6 feet in height. The stems are square-shaped and have small, green leaves that are toothed and serrated around the edges. The plant produces clusters of small, tubular flowers that are lavender to purple in color and bloom from midsummer to mid-fall. The flowers are held above the foliage on long, thin stems, giving the plant a light and airy appearance. The plant has a bushy growth habit, and its flowers attract birds, bees, and butterflies.
Care Guide
Verbena Bonariensis is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is evenly moist. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilizer. You can add a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to encourage blooming.- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it does not like wet feet.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not bloom as prolifically.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 7-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Verbena Bonariensis is generally pest and disease resistant, but it can be affected by the following:- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. It can be treated with a fungicide.- Spider mites: These are small insects that feed on the leaves and cause yellowing and browning. They can be treated with insecticidal soap.- Aphids: These are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant and cause distortion of the leaves. They can be treated with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Verbena Bonariensis is native to South America but has naturalized in many parts of the world. It grows in a wide range of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Verbena Bonariensis an annual or perennial plant?
A: Verbena Bonariensis is a perennial plant.
Q: What is the blooming season for Verbena Bonariensis?
A: Verbena Bonariensis blooms from midsummer to mid-fall.
Q: Does Verbena Bonariensis attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers attract birds, bees, and butterflies.
Q: What kind of soil does Verbena Bonariensis prefer?
A: Verbena Bonariensis prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Related Plants
– Verbena Rigida- Verbena Hastata- Verbena Canadensis- Verbena Homestead Purple
References
– “Verbena Bonariensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b498.- “Verbena Bonariensis.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/verbena-bonariensis-plant-profile-4848787.- “Verbena Bonariensis.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/3197/i-verbena-bonariensis-i/details.
