Verbena Rigida Santos

Description

Verbena Rigida Santos, also known as Santos Purpletop, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Verbenaceae family. It is a native to South America, and it produces a profusion of small, purple flowers that bloom throughout the summer months. The plant is drought-tolerant and is perfect for xeriscaping or low-water gardens. It is a popular choice among gardeners due to its vibrant color and long-lasting blooms.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Verbena Rigida Santos can grow up to 1-2 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. It has a spreading and mounding habit, and its leaves are dark green and serrated. The flowers are small, about 1/4 inch in diameter, and they grow in clusters on top of the plant’s stems. The flowers are deep purple and have a sweet fragrance. The plant blooms from late spring to early fall and attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.

Care Guide

Water

Verbena Rigida Santos is drought-tolerant, but it still needs regular watering during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week, making sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overhead watering, as this can lead to powdery mildew.

Fertilization

Fertilize the plant with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Use a slow-release fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Soil

Verbena Rigida Santos prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend the soil with compost or aged manure before planting.

Sunlight

The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to bloom properly.

Hardiness Zones

Verbena Rigida Santos is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Verbena Rigida Santos is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by powdery mildew and spider mites. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering, and space the plants properly to promote air circulation. Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant’s sap, causing the leaves to turn yellow and drop. To control spider mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

Verbena Rigida Santos is a native of South America, and it grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and rocky slopes. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate drought conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Verbena Rigida Santos a good plant for containers?

A: Yes, Verbena Rigida Santos is an excellent plant for containers. It has a compact, mounding habit and can be grown in pots or hanging baskets.

Q: Does Verbena Rigida Santos attract pollinators?

A: Yes, Verbena Rigida Santos attracts butterflies and hummingbirds with its nectar-rich flowers.

Q: Can I grow Verbena Rigida Santos from seeds?

A: Yes, you can grow Verbena Rigida Santos from seeds. Sow the seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, or sow them directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed.

Q: How often should I prune Verbena Rigida Santos?

A: Prune Verbena Rigida Santos in early spring to promote bushy growth and remove any dead or damaged stems. You can also deadhead the flowers to prolong the blooming period.

Related Plants

• Verbena Bonariensis
• Verbena Homestead Purple
• Verbena Canadensis
• Verbena Hastata

References

• “Verbena Rigida.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280071&isprofile=0&basic=verbena%20rigida (accessed September 28, 2021).
• “Verbena Rigida.” Fine Gardening. https://www.finegardening.com/plant/verbena-rigida (accessed September 28, 2021).
• “Verbena Rigida.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/southerngarden/verbena-rigida/ (accessed September 28, 2021).