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Description
Verbena Officinalis, also known as common verbena or vervain, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Verbenaceae. It is native to Europe and grows up to a height of 30-90 cm. The plant has a square stem that is usually hairy and can range in color from green to reddish-brown. It has small, opposite, and toothed leaves that are lance-shaped and hairy.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Genus | Verbena |
| Species | Officinalis |
Appearance
The Verbena Officinalis plant produces clusters of small, tubular flowers that are usually pink or purple in color. These flowers bloom from June to September and attract butterflies and bees. The plant also produces small, dry, and one-seeded fruits. Its roots are shallow and do not penetrate deep into the soil.
Care Guide
Verbena Officinalis is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips to help you grow healthy Verbena Officinalis:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water it when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.- Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization. A light feeding of balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season is sufficient.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Verbena Officinalis is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can still be affected by the following:- Powdery mildew: A fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can be treated with fungicides or by improving air circulation around the plant.- Spider mites: Tiny insects that suck the sap from the leaves, resulting in yellowing and stunted growth. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Aphids: Small insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing curling and distortion of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Verbena Officinalis is native to Europe but can also be found in North America and Asia. It grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, grasslands, and waste areas. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Verbena Officinalis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Verbena Officinalis can be toxic to pets if ingested in large quantities.Q: Can Verbena Officinalis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Verbena Officinalis can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage and are at least 8 inches deep.Q: How often should I prune Verbena Officinalis?
A: Pruning should be done in early spring or late fall. Cut back the stems by half to encourage bushier growth.Q: Can I use Verbena Officinalis for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Verbena Officinalis has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including insomnia, anxiety, and headaches.
Related Plants
– Verbena Bonariensis- Verbena Hastata- Verbena Rigida- Verbena Canadensis- Verbena Urticifolia
References
– “Verbena Officinalis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c926.- “Verbena Officinalis.” The National Gardening Association, garden.org/plants/view/78831/Common-Verbena-Verbena-officinalis/.- “Verbena Officinalis.” Plants For A Future, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Verbena+officinalis.
