Verbena bipinnatifida
Verbena bipinnatifida · Verbenaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant verbena bipinnatifida: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Finely-leaved verbena
- Family
- Verbenaceae
- Form
- Herbaceous
- Blooming period
- July to October
- Flower color
- Violet, pink, or blue depending on variety
- Mature height
- 30 to 60 cm tall
- Growth rate
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Moderate (−5 to 0 °C)
- Origin
- Southwestern United States, Mexico
Care
Light exposure
Place your verbena in full sun to ensure generous and continuous flowering. It tolerates light afternoon shade in very hot regions. A minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight daily guarantees good development.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid stagnant moisture, which promotes fungal diseases. During hot periods, watering every 2 to 3 days may be necessary.
Soil and drainage
Prefer well-draining, light, and relatively poor soil. A mix of universal potting soil with sand or gravel improves drainage. Verbena tolerates chalky soils and dislikes permanent waterlogging.
Fertilizing
A monthly application of balanced or dilute fertilizer is sufficient during growth. Avoid excessive feeding, which promotes foliage at the expense of flowers. Reduce applications in autumn.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch young stems to encourage a bushy, branched shape. Regularly remove spent flowers to extend blooming. Light pruning in late winter removes any dried portions.
Diseases and pests
Verbena dislikes powdery mildew in excessively humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation and avoid watering the foliage. Spider mites and whiteflies can occur in hot, dry conditions; treat with gentle solutions if necessary.
Did you know?
The finely-leaved verbena is traditionally used in North America for its ornamental qualities, but it also fascinates botanists with the delicate intricacy of its cut leaves, reminiscent of lace. Its name 'bipinnatifida' precisely designates this double feather-like division, a remarkable characteristic of the Verbena genus.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- VervainVerbena officinalis
- Verveine NodiflorePhyla nodiflora
- Purple verbenaVerbena bonariensis
- Lemon verbenaAloysia citrodora
- Aztec sweet herbLippia dulcis
- Aloysia polystachyaAloysia polystachya
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.