Description

Verbena bonariensis

(Purple Top, Argentinian Vervain, Clustertop Vervain)

Number of seeds in packet: 30+

A popular and beautiful, tall perennial plant allowing a “see-through” effect, providing useful height in a border. Tall, narrow, sparsely-leafed stems bear flattened heads of bright lavender-purple flowers, almost like a candelabra.

This is a short-lived perennial, and, because it is borderline hardy, plants may be damaged by winter frosts. This may be avoided by leaving the dead stalks until spring, when new growth is evident, before cutting them back.

They do, however, self-seed liberally and resulting seedlings are stronger and more drought-tolerant than those that are transplanted.

This is a superb butterfly plant, rivalling even buddleja.

Looks good with Foeniculum vulgare ‘Purpureum’ (Bronze Fennel), tall grasses and in any prairie-type planting, or just in the garden border or a “dry” garden.

Suitable for wall-side borders, Prairie and Gravel Gardens, City & Courtyard Gardens, Coastal, Cottage & Informal Gardens.

The plants are tolerant of both damp and drought – in fact, they thrive in damp conditions, contrary to popular belief!

Does NOT need staking, but needs full sun.

Height: 150cm
Spread: 45cm
Flowering period: August to October (or first frosts)