When most of us think about Verbena we imagine the trailing verbena we often see in hanging baskets in the summer months, but Bonariensis a little different. It is a hardy perennial Verbena which will come back year after year. Not only does it establish, it also self-seeds, so you’ll get more plants over time!
It’s a real gem of a plant because it creates a translucent effect. What we mean by this is that when you see some plants, they don’t create a wall foliage, some plants create just enough distraction but still allow you see through them. This is exactly what this plant is ‘king of the castle’ at doing! Let’s say you have a patio and then you’ve got a border that leads on to a view further up the garden; this plant will create a lovely open structure so you can still see through it. And you’ll be looking through a wall of beautiful purple flowers.
Verbena Bonariensis will grow to around a metre tall, making it quite a tall plant compared to most flowering shrubs, but still compact enough that it doesn’t robs you of valuable space. Moreover, Verbena is perfect for attracting pollinators to your garden later in the year. While most pollinators will stop flowering in summer, this plant will flower later, from mid-summer onwards to late autumn, making it the perfect summer to autumn plant for promoting populations of beneficial insects. Furthermore, it will thrive in either plant pots as one of the best patio plants, or in the ground amongst your other border plants, it is entirely up to you and your preference!
The RHS has awarded this with the Award of garden Merit. This is essentially the ‘Oscars’ of the plant world, so that proves to you that this has been trialled, tested and proven to be perfect in home-garden environments just like yours. And with maximum convenience too; this product is supplied as a trio of established plants in 9cm diameter pots, ready for planting straight out. And with YouGarden‘s excellent service, we’ll ship these straight to your door, so no trips to busy garden centres needed in order to get your hands on this wonderful variety. Simply order Verbena Bonariensis plants on our website (here) and they’ll be with you via our trusted courier in no time!
So if you want a fabulous plant that will flower year after year, that will be good for your pollinators, that’s got the accreditation of the RHS, then grow Verbena Bonariensis. You really won’t regret it!
Planting Verbena Bonariensis
Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil. Verbena Bonariensis thrives in full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade. Prior to planting, loosen the soil and remove any weeds or debris. Incorporate organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and drainage. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the plant’s root ball. Place the Verbena Bonariensis in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole, gently firming the soil around the plant. After planting, water the Verbena Bonariensis thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
Caring for Verbena Bonariensis
Water regularly during the establishment period, keeping the soil consistently moist but not overly saturated. Once established, Verbena Bonariensis is drought-tolerant and requires less frequent watering, making it one of the best low maintenance plants around. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the stem to prevent rotting. Verbena Bonariensis generally doesn’t require excessive fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced, feed or fertiliser in early spring to provide essential nutrients.
Due to its tall and airy growth habit, Verbena Bonariensis may benefit from staking or support to prevent flopping, especially in windy areas. Install stakes or use a trellis discreetly to provide support while allowing the plant to maintain its natural form. Verbena Bonariensis is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, keeping the garden clean, providing good air circulation, and promptly removing any damaged or diseased foliage can help prevent potential issues.
