Verbena Canescens

Description

Verbena Canescens, commonly known as Hoary Vervain or Gray Vervain, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Verbenaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found from Canada to Mexico. Verbena Canescens grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, producing spikes of small lavender to purple flowers that bloom from June to September.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Verbena Canescens has a bushy growth habit with multiple stems that are covered in fine hairs, giving the plant a gray-green appearance. The leaves are opposite, simple, and toothed. The spikes of flowers can grow up to 8 inches long and are arranged in dense clusters. Each flower is small, tubular, and has five petals that form a tube-like shape. The flowers are typically lavender to purple in color but can also be white or pink.

Care Guide

Verbena Canescens is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:

• Water: Water your plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: Verbena Canescens prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
• Sunlight: This plant thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Verbena Canescens is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Verbena Canescens is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and spider mites. Here are some ways to prevent and treat these issues:

• Powdery mildew: Ensure good air circulation around your plants and avoid overhead watering. Treat with a fungicide if necessary.
• Rust: Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide if necessary.
• Spider mites: Spray your plants with water to knock off the mites, and use an insecticidal soap to control the infestation.

Habitat

Verbena Canescens can be found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woods. It prefers well-draining soils and full sun but can also tolerate some shade. This plant is commonly found in the central and eastern regions of North America, from Canada to Mexico.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Verbena Canescens deer resistant?

A: Yes, this plant is deer resistant.

Q: Can Verbena Canescens be grown in containers?

A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is at least 12 inches deep and wide.

Q: Does Verbena Canescens attract pollinators?

A: Yes, this plant is attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Q: How often should I prune my Verbena Canescens?

A: You can prune your plant in early spring to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Deadhead spent blooms throughout the growing season to encourage more blooms.

Related Plants

• Verbena Hastata
• Verbena Bonariensis
• Verbena Rigida
• Verbena Officinalis

References

• “Verbena Canescens.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280930.
• “Verbena Canescens.” Plant Database, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/1494/.
• “Verbena Canescens.” Wildflower Center, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=VECA3.