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Description
Verbena Neomexicana is a flowering perennial plant that is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It belongs to the family Verbenaceae and is commonly known as New Mexico vervain. The plant typically grows up to 1-2 feet tall and has a spread of about 1-2 feet. It produces numerous small, lavender-colored flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. The plant has a pleasant fragrance and attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliophyta |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Genus | Verbena |
| Species | Neomexicana |
Appearance
Verbena Neomexicana has long, slender stems that are covered in small, green leaves. The leaves are toothed and have a slightly fuzzy texture. The plant produces clusters of small, tubular flowers that are typically lavender in color, but can also be pink or white. The flowers bloom in late spring to early fall and are arranged in a loose, branched inflorescence at the top of the stem. The plant has a bushy, mounding habit and can spread up to 2 feet wide.
Care Guide
Verbena Neomexicana is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:Water: Water regularly, but do not overwater. The plant prefers well-draining soil and does not tolerate standing water.Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, sandy soil. Amend heavy clay soil with sand or other organic matter to improve drainage.Sunlight: Verbena Neomexicana prefers full sun, but can tolerate light shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Verbena Neomexicana is generally pest and disease-resistant, but can be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant. Aphids may occasionally infest the plant, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Verbena Neomexicana is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in dry, rocky soils in grasslands and foothills. The plant is well-suited to xeriscaping and can be used in rock gardens, borders, and container gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Verbena Neomexicana?A: Water regularly, but do not overwater. The plant prefers well-draining soil and does not tolerate standing water.Q: What is the best fertilizer for Verbena Neomexicana?A: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: Does Verbena Neomexicana attract pollinators?A: Yes, the plant produces fragrant flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.Q: Is Verbena Neomexicana deer-resistant?A: Yes, the plant is generally deer-resistant due to its fragrant foliage.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Verbena Neomexicana:
- Verbena Bonariensis
- Verbena Hastata
- Verbena Rigida
- Verbena Canadensis
References
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b133
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/verbena/growing-verbena-plants.htm
- https://www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/verbena/verbena-neomexicana
- https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/perennial/verbena/
