Verbena Growth and Care Guide
Verbena is a vibrant flowering plant known for its clusters of small, colorful blooms that brighten gardens all season long. With both annual and perennial varieties available, Verbena offers gardeners endless options for long-lasting color. This Plant Guide will walk you through everything you need to know about growing and caring for Verbena. From planting, sunlight, soil and maintenance tips to selecting the best varieties , you’ll learn how to enjoy thriving Verbena in your garden.
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By: Reggie Meehan (6/14/2025) - Last Updated (6/4/2026)
Introduction to Verbena
Verbena encompasses over 250 species of flowering plants in the Verbenaceae family. Native to tropical and subtropical regions, Verbena is celebrated for its long-lasting blooms, which range from deep purples to soft pastels. From trailing Verbena hybrid varieties perfect for hanging baskets to upright cultivars like Verbena bonariensis, this plant brings charm and resilience to any garden.
Lemon Verbena (Aloysia citrodora) is a fragrant herb native to South America, cherished for its delightful lemon-scented leaves. However, as it is not part of the Verbenaceae family, it is not discussed herein. Another extremely popular species of Verbena is Blue Vervain (Verbena hastata), a perennial herb native to North America. Blue Vervain has a long history of use in traditional medicine. The leaves and flowering tops of blue vervain are commonly used to make herbal teas and tinctures. However, Verbena hastata is not commonly found in local garden centers and is thus excluded from this section on Verbena. In sum, this discussion is limited to commercially available Verbena such as the trailing hybrids and the upright bonariensis variety.
My first experience with Verbena was planting Verbena Homestead Purple, a well known trailing Verbena found on a homestead farm in Georgia. Everywhere it touched the naked earth, it rooted, providing a rolling carpet of purple blooms that spread from season to season. Its ease of care and drought tolerance quickly made it one of my favorites.
Characteristics of Verbena
Verbena thrives in diverse settings, including garden beds, borders, rock gardens, and hanging baskets. It’s both drought-tolerant and easy to grow, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned gardeners. Its clusters of small, vivid flowers bloom profusely throughout the growing season, attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Size and Growth Habit
One of the things I appreciate most about Verbena is just how versatile it can be in the landscape. Depending on the species or variety, Verbena can serve as a low-growing groundcover, a trailing accent in containers, or a tall architectural plant that adds height to a flower bed. This flexibility makes it easy to incorporate into almost any garden style, whether you're creating a formal border, a cottage garden, or a pollinator-friendly planting.
Trailing varieties, such as Verbena rigida and many modern bedding Verbenas, typically grow 6–12 inches tall while spreading several feet wide. These types are excellent for hanging baskets, window boxes, and the front of garden beds where they can spill gracefully over edges. Taller species, particularly Verbena bonariensis, can reach 4–6 feet in height and create a light, airy presence in the garden. Their upright stems weave naturally through neighboring plants, adding vertical interest without creating a heavy or crowded appearance.
Leaves and Flowers
While Verbena is primarily grown for its flowers, the foliage plays an important supporting role throughout the season. The leaves are typically narrow to lance-shaped with slightly serrated edges and a medium green color that blends easily with surrounding plants. Many varieties have foliage that feels slightly rough or textured, helping create visual contrast when paired with plants that have larger or glossier leaves.
The real attraction, however, is Verbena’s impressive floral display. Small tubular flowers are produced in dense, rounded clusters that sit above the foliage and create a blanket of color from late Spring until frost. Depending on the variety, blooms may appear in shades of purple, violet, pink, red, white, blue, or even bi-color combinations. Because the plants bloom so heavily and continuously, they provide reliable color for months while also attracting butterflies, bees, and other beneficial pollinators throughout the growing season.
Is Verbena Annual or Perennial?
Verbena can be an annual or perennial, depending on the species and climate. In USDA Hardiness Zones 7-11, many varieties are perennial and will return year after year with proper care. In cooler regions, Verbena is typically grown as an annual, providing vibrant blooms throughout the growing season before succumbing to frost. Alternatively, in colder climates, it can be overwintered indoors, either as a potted plant or by taking cuttings to propagate new growth for the following Spring. This adaptability makes Verbena a versatile plant that can be enjoyed in a wide range of settings and climates.
Best Varieties of Verbena
The best Verbena varieties combine long bloom windows, strong heat tolerance, and dependable garden performance across a wide range of climates. From perennial standouts like Verbena bonariensis selections to elite trial-rated series such as EnduraScape™, modern breeding has produced verbenas that outperform older types in uniformity and longevity.
Verbena bonariensis (Tall Verbena)
Native to the Eastern South America, Verbena bonariensis has become the most beloved Verbena type among gardeners. Its tall, airy habit, slender stems, and floating lavender-purple blooms create unmatched movement and lightness in borders and pollinator gardens, earning it a clear #1 ranking. The unpatented Lollipop Verbena, long considered a cottage-garden staple, typically reaches 2–3 feet tall and remains the benchmark for classic tall verbena performance.
In recent years, newer selections have entered the market, most notably Vanity, an All-America Selections (AAS) winner that also achieved rare 5.0 trial ratings for its improved uniformity and garden presence. Hardy in USDA Zones 7–11, Verbena bonariensis functions as a true perennial for a large portion of gardeners.
Homestead Verbena
Homestead Verbena (Verbena canadensis), best known through Homestead Purple, became popular largely because it was one of the only widely available perennial verbenas for decades. It is reliably hardy as a tender perennial to Zone 6 with Winter protection and perennial in warmer regions.
Homestead Hot Pink offers the same toughness and growth habit with a brighter, more contemporary color option. Because these varieties have been on the market for so long and are no longer patented, no modern trial data are available for either selection. Their reputation was built through long-term garden performance rather than formal evaluations. Today, many newer verbena varieties have achieved 4.8–5.0 trial ratings, offering improved uniformity and bloom performance compared to the classic Homestead types.
EnduraScape™ Series
The EnduraScape™ Series has quickly risen in popularity thanks to its strong performance as a true perennial verbena bred by Ball Seed. It behaves as a tender perennial in USDA Zone 7 and is reliably perennial in Zones 8–11, making it one of the most cold-hardy modern Verbena series available. Several varieties have earned elite 4.8–5.0 trial ratings, placing the series firmly among the top-performing Verbenas on the market.
In addition to strong branching and uniform growth, the series delivers excellent heat tolerance and season-long bloom. Notably, EnduraScape™ Pink Bi-Color also earned a coveted All-America Selections (AAS) designation, further cementing the series’ credibility. With both proven genetics and modern breeding, EnduraScape™ earns its place just outside the top tier.
Lanai® Series
This Lanai® Series by Syngenta Flowers remains one of the most widely planted Verbena series in North America, particularly for containers and mixed planters. While it is technically an Annual Verbena, its sheer volume of varieties and consistently high trial performance earn it a spot in the top five. The series includes more than 37 named selections, with many achieving trial ratings above 4.8, especially in container-focused evaluations.
Lanai® is prized for its compact habit, uniform growth, and dependable flowering in small spaces. Although not all varieties have been formally trialed due to the series’ long history, the genetics are well proven and dependable. In warmer regions (Zones 9–11), Lanai® can even behave as a short-lived perennial, making it a reliable choice for a large portion of gardeners.
Lascar™ Series
The Lascar™ Series is best known for its bold, unique bloom colors, strong branching, and dependable performance in heat. The series truly shines with Black Velvet, whose deep, near-black purple blooms add dramatic contrast and sophistication to beds and containers while maintaining uniform growth and nonstop flowering. On the warmer end of the spectrum, Mango Orange and Orange Lava bring intense, sun-soaked color to the garden, ranging from bright tropical orange to fiery orange-red tones that hold exceptionally well in full sun. Together, the Lascar™ series excels at delivering high-impact color without sacrificing reliability or ease of care.
Empress® Series
The Empress® Series from Dümmen Orange may not be the most widely searched Verbena series, but it consistently earns some of the highest trial garden ratings in the industry. These vigorous plants are known for their exceptional branching, strong heat tolerance, and ability to maintain a full, colorful appearance throughout the growing season. In many university and professional trial programs, Empress® varieties routinely score between 4.8 and 5.0 out of 5.0, placing them among the top-performing annual Verbenas available.
Standout selections include Flair Burgundy, Flair White, Flair Pink, and Sun Lavender Charmed. These varieties offer excellent flower coverage, strong disease resistance, and dependable garden performance even during periods of Summer heat.
Estrella™ Series
The Estrella™ Series from Westhoff is another outstanding collection of Verbena that consistently delivers exceptional garden performance. Like the Empress® Series, Estrella™ varieties frequently earn trial ratings of 4.8 to 5.0 thanks to their vigorous growth, heavy flowering, and impressive weather tolerance. These plants produce dense mounds of blooms that continue performing long after many other annuals begin to decline.
Top-performing varieties include Blueberry, Dark Orange, Hot Pink, Imperial Blue, Lobsterfest. The unique color selections help distinguish the series, with several shades rarely seen in traditional Verbena breeding. Like many modern Verbenas, the Estrella™ Series can function as a perennial in Zones 9–11, where plants often return year after year and develop into larger, more established specimens.
Superbena® Series
When it comes to combining popularity, performance, and garden reliability, few Verbena series can rival the Superbena® Series from Proven Winners. Developed specifically for superior vigor, disease resistance, and season-long flowering, Superbena® has become one of the most widely planted Verbena series in North America. Many varieties routinely achieve trial ratings between 4.8 and 5.0, making them favorites among both professional growers and home gardeners.
Exceptional performers include Superbena® Coral Red, Imperial Blue, Peachy Keen, Pink Cashmere, Pink Shades, Raspberry, Red, Royal Plum Wine, Sparkling Amethyst, Sparkling Rose, Violet Ice, and Whiteout. Unlike many annual Verbenas, most Superbena® varieties are hardy to Zone 8, allowing them to function as short-lived perennials across much of the South. While one annual Verbena series may surpass it in overall search volume, Superbena® earns a higher ranking in many gardens because of its perennial potential, outstanding trial performance, and proven ability to provide months of reliable color with minimal maintenance.
How to Grow and Care for Verbena
Verbena thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, requiring regular watering during establishment but tolerating drought once mature. To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers and fertilize lightly during the growing season. With its resilience to heat and ability to flourish in various settings, Verbena is an excellent choice for low-maintenance, long-lasting beauty.
Planting Verbena
Plant Verbena in Spring after the danger of frost has passed, ensuring it has warm conditions to thrive. Choose a sunny location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, as full sun promotes the most vigorous growth and abundant blooms. Space plants 12–18 inches apart to allow for adequate airflow, reducing the risk of disease and encouraging healthy development. Verbena adapts well to a variety of garden settings, including borders, containers, and hanging baskets, where its vibrant flowers can shine.
Sunlight Requirements
Verbena thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of daily light to produce its signature clusters of colorful blooms. While it can tolerate partial shade, reduced sunlight often results in fewer flowers and slower growth. Planting Verbena in a bright location ensures it reaches its full potential, delivering a season-long display of vibrant color. In shadier spots, the plant may struggle to bloom consistently and may become leggy. Crowding annual Verbena should be avoided as the under-foliage will start to yellow if denied sunlight, making the plant less aesthetically pleasing.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is crucial for Verbena, as it is prone to root rot in waterlogged conditions. While the plant tolerates poor soils, it performs best in nutrient-rich, loamy soil that retains moisture without becoming soggy. A soil pH of 5.5–7.0 is ideal for healthy growth and optimal nutrient absorption. If your soil is heavy or compacted, consider amending it with compost or to improve drainage and aeration.
Watering Needs
Water Verbena regularly but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering should be avoided, as excess moisture can lead to root rot and other fungal problems. During periods of extreme heat or drought, you may need to water more frequently to keep the plant healthy. Consistent but moderate watering helps maintain lush foliage and prolific flowering throughout the growing season.
Tall Verbena will sink deeper roots and consequently will require less water and will better tolerate drought situations. Annual and perennial trailing verbena will root where exposed soil is found so they may require more frequent watering. For trailing verbena, drought may result in loss of blooms and the perennial trailing verbena may see browning to the tips of foliage as a result of dry conditions.
Fertilizer Needs
Consider planting with, or for perennials annually introduce, a slow release fertilizer. Feed Annual Verbena with a balanced liquid fertilizer or a high phosphorus blossom booster once a month during the growing season to promote vigorous growth and continuous blooms. Avoid over-fertilizing or using high-nitrogen formulas, as these can encourage leggy growth at the expense of flowers. A well-fed Verbena will reward you with vibrant, long-lasting blooms and healthy foliage.
Pruning & Deadheading
For Verbena bonariensis varieties, one or two pinches as the plant begins its growth will encourage a fuller and more bushy plant. Deadheading of the upright Verbena is not necessary.
For trailing Verbena, deadheading of spent flowers is essential to keep Verbena blooming throughout the summer and into fall. Removing faded blooms redirects energy toward producing new flowers. Additionally, pinching back one leg every 1-3 weeks will help prevent trailing Verbena from becoming too leggy. Or, in midsummer, cutting trailing Verbena back by one-third rejuvenates its growth, encourages bushier foliage, and extends the flowering season. Light pruning always helps maintain a tidy and attractive appearance.
Overwintering
In USDA Zones 7–11, many Verbena varieties can survive outdoors through winter with minimal care. In colder climates, dig up perennial Verbena and transfer it to pots to overwinter indoors. Store the plants in a cool, bright location and water sparingly during the dormant period to prevent the roots from drying out. In spring, reintroduce the plants to outdoor conditions gradually, ensuring they acclimate to temperature changes.
Common Pests
Verbena's main pest is thrip. These nuisances cause discoloration of the foliage, resulting in white or gray blotches to the leaves that are aesthetically unattractive. Spinosad, an organic pesticide, is the best application to address thrip. Mites and aphids may also visit from time to time. For aphids, use insecticidal soap for immediate control and neem oil for long-term prevention. Aphid populations can increase rapidly, so reapply neem in combination with insecticidal soap within 7 days to disrupt their lifecycle. For mites, apply neem oil to affected areas, ensuring thorough coverage under the leaves. Repeat treatment if infestations persist.
Common Diseases
Most Verbena have disease resistance to powdery mildew but root rot is a concern, often caused by poorly drained soil or overwatering. To avoid these problems, plant Verbena in well-drained soil and water only when necessary, keeping the foliage dry during irrigation.
Common Mistakes
Planting Verbena in shady areas often results in reduced flower production and less vigorous growth. Overwatering is another frequent mistake, leading to root rot and fungal issues that can harm the plant. Neglecting to deadhead spent flowers reduces blooming potential, leaving the plant less vibrant and productive. Addressing these common pitfalls helps ensure a thriving, long-lasting display.
Common Misconceptions
The biggest misconception with Verbena is a failure for many gardeners to realize that many trailing species are perennial. While the Homestead Purple variety is known to be perennial through Zone 7, both the Superbena and Endurascape varieties also have hardiness through Zone 8 and may be hardy in Zone 7 with a thick mulch application. Note also Doug’s Pink, Homestead Hot Pink and Homestead Red are considered Zone 7 hardy perennial verbena, with Zone 6 hardiness listed for several.
Using Verbena in the Garden
Verbena is a versatile and vibrant addition to any garden, known for its clusters of colorful blooms that attract butterflies and pollinators. Tall Verbena is perfect for borders and for use in cottage gardens, whereas trailing Verbena is great for containers or as ground cover. Verbena thrives in sunny spots with well-drained soil. With minimal care, Verbena provides a long-lasting display of flowers from spring through fall.
Pollinator Gardens
Verbena’s vibrant, nectar-rich blooms make it a top choice for pollinator gardens, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the growing season. Its tubular flowers, available in a range of colors, are particularly appealing to long-tongued pollinators like hummingbirds and certain butterfly species.
Planting Verbena alongside other pollinator-friendly species, such as lavender, salvia, and milkweed, creates a thriving ecosystem that supports biodiversity. Its long blooming period, from late Spring to Fall, ensures a consistent food source for pollinators. Adding Verbena to your garden not only enhances its visual appeal but also contributes to the health of local pollinator populations.
Ground Cover
Low-growing perennial Verbena varieties, particularly favorites like Homestead Purple, make outstanding ground covers in sunny landscapes. These plants spread steadily across the soil surface, creating a dense carpet of foliage and flowers that helps suppress weeds while filling bare areas with color. Their spreading habit makes them especially useful along pathways, at the front of borders, and in areas where a traditional lawn may struggle to thrive.
One of the reasons I recommend Verbena as a ground cover so often is its ability to handle difficult growing conditions. Once established, it tolerates heat, humidity, drought, and relatively poor soils far better than many flowering perennials. On slopes and banks, the spreading stems help reduce erosion while providing season-long interest. The masses of purple, pink, red, or white blooms create a colorful blanket that attracts butterflies and pollinators throughout the growing season.
Container Displays
Trailing Verbena varieties are among the best flowering plants for hanging baskets and containers, where their spreading stems can spill gracefully over the edges and soften the overall planting. Their naturally cascading habit adds movement and texture, making containers feel fuller and more established. Whether planted alone or mixed with other annuals, Verbena creates a colorful display that performs from Spring until frost.
In mixed containers, Verbena pairs beautifully with upright plants such as Angelonia, as well as mounding plants like Calibrachoa. The blooms are available in an impressive range of colors, including peach, pink, purple, red, white, and blue, making it easy to coordinate with virtually any garden design or patio décor. I particularly like using Verbena near seating areas and entryways where the abundant flowers can be appreciated up close.
Another reason Verbena performs so well in containers is its durability. It tolerates heat, humidity, and periods of dry weather far better than many flowering annuals, making it a reliable choice for busy gardeners. With good drainage, regular watering, and occasional fertilization, container-grown Verbena will bloom continuously throughout the growing season, providing months of vibrant color with very little maintenance.
Cottage Gardens and Cut Flowers
Few plants fit as naturally into a cottage garden as Verbena bonariensis. Varieties such as Lollipop and the All-America Selections winner Vanity produce tall, slender stems topped with clusters of soft purple flowers that seem to float above the rest of the garden. I like using them among plants such as Echinacea, Salvia, Coreopsis, and ornamental grasses, where their airy habit adds height and movement without blocking neighboring plants. The open structure also allows them to weave through crowded borders, creating the relaxed, informal look that cottage gardens are known for.
Verbena bonariensis is equally valuable as a cut flower. The long, wiry stems hold up well in arrangements, while the clusters of small blooms add texture and a light, delicate appearance that mixes easily with both annuals and perennials. One characteristic that often gets overlooked is how well these flowers dry. Even after drying, the blooms retain much of their soft periwinkle-purple color, making them useful for wreaths, dried bouquets, and other long-lasting floral displays. Their combination of garden performance, vase life, and drying quality makes them one of the most versatile flowering plants you can grow.
Verbena Blooms All Season
Looking to grow Verbena in your garden? Here at Garden Delivery, we offer exceptional Verbena plants, grown from top-performing genetics and sourced from the most reliable growers in the industry. Verbena is loved for its long-lasting blooms, heat and drought tolerance, and ability to trail beautifully in containers or spread across garden beds. Add Verbena to your garden today and enjoy non-stop color with minimal effort all season long!