Bring Height and Pollinator Power to Your Garden with Verbena Bonariensis (Purpletop Vervain)

Verbena Bonariensis, also known as Purpletop Vervain, is a striking perennial admired for its tall, slender stems topped with clusters of vibrant lilac-purple flowers. Blooming from midsummer until the first frosts, it adds vertical interest and a delicate, airy charm to borders, meadows, and wildlife gardens.

The long-lasting blooms are highly attractive to pollinators, especially bees and butterflies, making it a valuable addition for gardeners aiming to support local biodiversity. Its graceful structure allows it to weave naturally among other plants without overpowering the display.

Growing Conditions

Verbena Bonariensis thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant once established and performs beautifully in borders, wildlife areas, and pollinator gardens.

Planting Guide

Sowing Indoors: Sow seeds indoors from February to April. Press seeds lightly onto the surface of moist seed compost without covering, as light aids germination. Maintain a temperature of 18–24°C. Germination may take 14–28 days.
Transplanting: When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots. Gradually acclimatise before planting outside after the risk of frost has passed.
Direct Sowing: Alternatively, sow directly outdoors from April to May once the soil has warmed. Thin seedlings to achieve a final spacing of 30–45 cm apart.

Care & Maintenance

Watering: Water regularly during the establishment period, then reduce frequency as plants become drought-tolerant.
Feeding: Not usually required. A general-purpose feed in early summer can boost growth.
Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Allow some flowers to set seed if naturalising is desired.
Winter Care: In colder areas, apply a light mulch for winter protection or allow plants to self-seed for the following year.

Flowering & Cut Flower Tips

Verbena Bonariensis flowers from July until the first frosts. The slender, branching stems are excellent for cutting, adding height and lightness to summer bouquets. Harvest stems when the flowers are fully open for the best vase life.

Garden Impact

This variety creates a dramatic, see-through effect in the garden, working well with grasses and other perennials. It’s a must-have for wildlife gardens and has been widely used in award-winning planting schemes for its pollinator value and structural beauty.