Verbena bonariensis – Airy Elegance and Pollinator Power for Every Garden
Verbena bonariensis, commonly known as Purpletop Vervain or Tall Verbena, is a much-loved perennial that brings height, movement, and wildlife appeal to borders and beds. With tall, wiry stems topped by clusters of small, lavender-purple flowers, this elegant plant offers a weightless quality that adds vertical interest without crowding its neighbours. Flowering from midsummer well into autumn, it’s a magnet for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, and a must-have for naturalistic or wildlife-friendly gardens.
Why Grow Verbena bonariensis?
Graceful Vertical Structure
Its slender stems and open habit allow it to rise above lower-growing plants, adding a sense of rhythm and lightness to borders without blocking views.
Long Flowering Period
From July through October, Verbena bonariensis delivers a near-constant supply of vibrant, nectar-rich blooms that extend colour and interest into late autumn.
Loved by Pollinators
A true pollinator magnet, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting garden biodiversity.
Drought-Tolerant Once Established
Low-maintenance and resilient, it thrives in sunny, well-drained spots, even in dry conditions.
Self-Seeding Charm
It often self-seeds gently around the garden, popping up in unexpected places and softening paths, patios, or gravel areas with effortless style.
Where to Grow Verbena bonariensis
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Mixed herbaceous borders
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Prairie-style or naturalistic planting schemes
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Wildlife and pollinator gardens
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Gravel gardens or sunny dry spots
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Among grasses and late-season perennials like Rudbeckia, Echinacea, or Gaura
How to Grow and Care for Verbena bonariensis
Soil – Prefers well-drained soil, including sandy or loamy types. Avoid heavy or waterlogged conditions.
Light – Requires full sun to flower well and maintain a sturdy upright form.
Watering – Water regularly while young. Once established, it's highly drought-tolerant.
Pruning – Cut back spent flower stems in late autumn or early spring. Mulch lightly in colder areas to protect roots over winter.
Feeding – Generally not needed, but a spring mulch or balanced fertiliser can boost flowering.
Verbena bonariensis is a staple in modern garden design thanks to its graceful height, long-lasting colour, and naturalistic charm. Whether you're crafting a pollinator paradise or adding texture and movement to a border, this elegant perennial is an essential choice for summer-to-autumn impact with minimal effort.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
