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Description
Verbena Simplex, also known as Narrow-leaved Vervain, is an herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Verbenaceae. It is native to North America, and can be found in various habitats such as meadows, prairies, and along roadsides. It can grow up to a height of 3 feet, and has a spread of 2 feet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Genus | Verbena |
Appearance
Verbena Simplex has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are up to 4 inches long. The leaves are arranged oppositely along the stem, and are slightly toothed. The plant produces slender spikes of small, tubular, lavender-purple flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall. The flowers are about 1/8 inch wide and are arranged in dense clusters.
Care Guide
Verbena Simplex is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to help you grow healthy plants:
Water
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is kept consistently moist. Water the plant deeply once a week, and more frequently during hot, dry weather.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
Verbena Simplex is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Verbena Simplex is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and spider mites. Keep an eye out for these pests, and treat them promptly if you notice any signs of infestation.
Habitat
Verbena Simplex is native to North America, and can be found in various habitats such as meadows, prairies, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Verbena Simplex be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Verbena Simplex can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Verbena Simplex?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Verbena Simplex deer-resistant?
A: No, Verbena Simplex is not deer-resistant.
Q: How tall does Verbena Simplex grow?
A: Verbena Simplex can grow up to a height of 3 feet.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you might be interested in:
- Verbena Bonariensis
- Verbena Canadensis
- Verbena Hastata
- Verbena Rigida
References
- USDA Plants Database: Verbena Simplex
- Gardenia: Verbena Simplex
- Gardening Know How: Narrow-Leaved Vervain: Tips On Growing Verbena Simplex Plants
