Purpletop

Verbena bonariensis, commonly known as tall verbena or purpletop vervain, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Verbenaceae family. Native to South America, it has become widely popular as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes around the world. Here's an informative description, including detailed information on its appearance, identification, and general care:

Appearance:

1. Growth Form:

   • Tall verbena is an upright, clump-forming perennial with a slender, branching habit.
   • It can reach heights of 3 to 6 feet (1 to 2 meters).

2. Leaves:

   • The leaves are lance-shaped, simple, and arranged in opposite pairs along the stems.
   • Leaves are typically dark green and may have a slightly serrated margin.

3. Flowers:

   • Clusters of small, tubular flowers are borne in terminal clusters at the tops of long, wiry stems.
   • Flowers are typically violet-purple, adding a splash of color to the garden.

4. Stems:

   • The stems are square in cross-section, a characteristic feature of plants in the Verbenaceae family.

Identification:

1. Tall Growth Habit:

   • As the common name suggests, the plant is tall and has an upright growth habit.

2. Opposite Leaves:

   • The leaves are arranged opposite each other along the stems.

3. Terminal Flower Clusters:

   • The flowers are arranged in dense clusters at the tips of the stems.

4. Violet-Purple Flowers:

   • The vibrant violet-purple flowers are a distinctive feature.

Cultural Practices:

1. Sunlight:

   • Tall verbena thrives in full sunlight and is well-suited for sunny garden beds or borders.

2. Soil:

   • It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate various soil types, including loamy or sandy soils.

3. Watering:

   • Once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant. However, regular watering promotes healthier growth and flowering.

4. Pruning:

   • Deadheading spent flowers can encourage prolonged blooming and prevent self-seeding.

5. Hardiness:

   • It is generally hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures, making it suitable for various climate zones.

Landscaping Uses:

1. Butterfly Attractor:

   • Tall verbena is known for attracting butterflies, making it a popular choice for butterfly gardens.

2. Background Plant:

   • Its tall, airy structure makes it suitable as a background or mid-border plant in garden designs.

3. Cut Flowers:

   • The long stems with clusters of flowers make it suitable for cut flower arrangements.

Maintenance:

1. Self-Seeding:

   • Tall verbena has a tendency to self-seed. If unwanted seedlings are a concern, deadheading can help prevent excessive self-seeding.

2. Support:

   • In areas with strong winds or heavy rainfall, providing support (staking) may be necessary to prevent the stems from bending or breaking.