Contents
Description
Verbena Hastata, commonly known as blue vervain or swamp verbena, is a perennial herbaceous flowering plant that belongs to the Verbenaceae family. This plant is native to North America and grows in moist habitats such as meadows, marshes, and riverbanks. It can grow up to 6 feet tall and blooms from June to September, producing spikes of small purple-blue flowers that attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees. Blue vervain has a long history of medicinal uses and was used by Native Americans to treat various ailments such as fever, respiratory issues, and digestive problems.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukaryota |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Spermatophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Lamiales |
Family | Verbenaceae |
Genus | Verbena |
Appearance
Blue vervain has a tall and slender stem with opposite, lance-shaped leaves that are toothed and hairy. The leaves are green on top and pale underneath, and grow up to 6 inches long. The plant produces long spikes of small purple-blue flowers that grow up to 6 inches long and are arranged in clusters. The flowers have 5 petals and a long pistil that extends beyond the petals. Blue vervain can grow up to 6 feet tall and has a spread of up to 2 feet wide.
Care Guide
Water: Blue vervain prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells.
Fertilization: Blue vervain does not need much fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once in the spring and once in mid-summer.
Soil: Blue vervain prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soil.
Sunlight: Blue vervain prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: Blue vervain is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Blue vervain is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant. If necessary, apply a fungicide.
Habitat
Blue vervain is native to North America and grows in a variety of moist habitats such as meadows, marshes, and riverbanks. It can also be found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Is blue vervain toxic?
A: Blue vervain is not toxic to humans or animals. However, it can cause skin irritation in some people.
Q: How do I propagate blue vervain?
A: Blue vervain can be propagated by seed or division. To propagate by seed, sow the seeds in the fall or early spring. To propagate by division, dig up the plant and separate the roots into smaller sections. Replant the sections in well-draining soil.
Q: Can I grow blue vervain in a container?
A: Blue vervain can be grown in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system. Use a well-draining potting mix and water the plant regularly.
Q: How do I prune blue vervain?
A: Blue vervain does not need much pruning. However, you can deadhead the spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Cut back the plant in the fall to prevent self-seeding.
Related Plants
- Verbena Bonariensis
- Verbena Canadensis
- Verbena Rigida
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/verbena/growing-verbena.htm
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c734
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=VEHA