White vervain
Verbena urticifolia · Verbenaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant white vervain: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- July to October
- Adult size
- 60 to 120 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Hardy to -15°C
- Origin
- North America
- Soil type
- Well-drained, moderately fertile
Care
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season to keep the soil slightly moist. Once established, white vervain tolerates relative drought well. Reduce watering in autumn and limit it in winter.
Light exposure
Place in full sun or partial shade for optimal flowering. A minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day promotes generous and prolonged blooming.
Pruning and cutting
Pinch back young stems in spring to encourage branching. At the end of the season, cut back faded stems at ground level to prepare for overwintering. Light cleaning in late winter stimulates new growth.
Soil and planting
Choose well-drained soil to prevent root rot. Adding compost at planting improves soil structure. Avoid excess organic matter, which promotes lush growth at the expense of flowering.
Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer application in early spring is usually sufficient. You can enrich with mild fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during flowering to extend flower production.
Diseases and pests
White vervain is rarely affected by diseases if drainage conditions are good. Watch for powdery mildew in case of excessive humidity and poor air circulation. Check regularly for scale insects or spider mites, especially in sheltered cultivation.
Did you know?
White vervain was used by Native American populations in tonic teas and for its traditional soothing properties. Its name 'urticifolia' literally means 'with nettle leaves,' referring to the rough and toothed texture of its foliage, which indeed resembles that of its prickly cousins.
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.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.