American Blue Vervain (Verbena hastata) [ver-BEE-nah haas-TAH-tah] |
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| Other Names | Verbena hosata, Vervain, Verbena hastata (NGN), Verbena hastata - Mix |
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Description |
Verbena hastata, commonly known as Blue Vervain or Hoary Vervain, is a striking, upright, herbaceous perennial native to North America. This plant typically grows 4-6 feet tall, with a clumping habit and attractive, lance-shaped leaves that are often covered with fine, silvery hairs, giving them a slightly fuzzy appearance. In late summer and early fall, Verbena hastata produces clusters of small, vibrant blue to purple flowers that resemble asters and attract butterflies, bees, and parasitic wasps. The flowers are borne on tall, slender stalks, creating a graceful and airy effect. This plant boasts attractive, clean foliage and prefers moist soils, but is tolerant of variable soils, including clay. Verbena hastata holds tufted seed heads well into winter, providing food for birds. It is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is tolerant of a variety of conditions, making it a good choice for gardens, meadows, and naturalized areas. This plant is also known for its medicinal properties, having been used traditionally for its calming and anti-inflammatory effects. |
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| Plant Data | |
| I am a... | Deciduous Perennial |
| Where to Find It | Cup Plants are hard to miss in late summer, as they (and their yellow flowers) tower over the wetland on the north end of the property. |
| Why to Like | Pretty purple flowers in late summer! |
| Mature Size | 4 - 6 feet tall. 24 - 36 inches wide. |
| Sun Exposure | Full Sun - Full Sun |
| Moisture Tolerance | Wet : Verbena tend to prefer good drainage. |
| Zones | 3a - 8b |
| Tags | Attracts Butterflies, Illinois Native, Non-Allergenic, Rabbit Resistant |
| Bloom Period | June - August |
| Flower Color | Purplish-Blue
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Photos: Google Image Search & Flickr |
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