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Description
Verbena Xutha, also known as Purpletop vervain, is a perennial flowering plant that is native to the southeastern United States. It belongs to the Verbenaceae family and is known for its beautiful lavender-colored flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. This plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for borders, rock gardens, and containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Genus | Verbena |
Appearance
Verbena Xutha has an upright growth habit and produces clusters of small, tubular flowers that are a beautiful shade of lavender. The flowers are held on long, thin stems that rise above the foliage. The leaves are dark green and slightly hairy, and they have a serrated edge. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for borders, rock gardens, and containers.
Care Guide
Verbena Xutha is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it does require some care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this beautiful plant:- Water: Verbena Xutha prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Verbena Xutha prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.- Sunlight: Verbena Xutha prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.- Hardiness Zones: Verbena Xutha is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Verbena Xutha is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to some diseases, including:- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Treat with a fungicide.- Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot. Improve drainage and reduce watering to prevent root rot.
Habitat
Verbena Xutha is native to the southeastern United States and can be found growing in fields, meadows, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Verbena Xutha deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Verbena Xutha is deer-resistant.
Q: How often should I water Verbena Xutha?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: Can I grow Verbena Xutha in a container?
A: Yes, Verbena Xutha is an excellent choice for containers.
Q: Does Verbena Xutha attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Verbena Xutha is a favorite of butterflies and bees.
Related Plants
– Verbena Bonariensis- Verbena Canadensis- Verbena Hastata- Verbena Rigida
References
– “Verbena xutha (Buckl.) Moldenke.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 14 June 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:865132-1.- “Purpletop Vervain.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 14 June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282467.
