Verbena bonariensis

Verbena bonariensis: Airy Height, Pollinator Delight

With its tall, wiry stems and clusters of vibrant lavender-purple blooms, Verbena bonariensis brings movement, vertical lift, and endless pollinator activity to sunny borders. Floating effortlessly above the garden on slender stems, the blooms appear from midsummer until frost, attracting butterflies, bees, and beneficial insects in droves. Its open form allows it to mingle beautifully among other perennials without crowding, making it a favourite for naturalistic plantings and layered garden designs.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 100–150 cm
• Spread: 30–45 cm
• Flower Colour: Lavender-purple
• Flowering Period: Midsummer to frost
• Foliage: Narrow, toothed, medium green leaves
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil

Uses and Benefits: Verbena bonariensis is a standout in pollinator gardens, prairie-style borders, and mixed sunny beds where airy structure and long bloom are key. Its drought tolerance and self-seeding nature make it a low-maintenance option for filling vertical gaps and adding colour without bulk. Whether used en masse or dotted through the border, it brings a wild, effortless charm that keeps the garden buzzing.

Companion Plants: Pair Verbena bonariensis with the sturdy, rosy blooms of Echinacea purpurea, the upright, architectural lines of Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster', and the hot, daisy-like colour of Gaillardia 'Arizona Sun' for a pollinator-friendly, sun-loving planting that combines height, texture, and vibrant summer colour.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun and well-drained soil. Water to establish, then only during extended dry periods. Deadhead to reduce self-seeding or leave blooms standing for winter interest. Cut back in early spring as new growth emerges. May overwinter in sheltered spots or return via self-sown seedlings.

History: Native to South America, Verbena bonariensis has become a garden favourite worldwide for its ethereal presence, wildlife value, and ability to blend effortlessly with a wide range of perennials and grasses.

Final Thoughts: Light, long-blooming, and beloved by pollinators, Verbena bonariensis is the vertical thread that pulls a summer garden together—dancing in the breeze and glowing in the golden light of late afternoon.