Verbena bonariensis

Common Name:
Tall Verbena

Description:
Verbena bonariensis, commonly known as Tall Verbena or Purpletop Vervain, is a striking perennial with an airy, architectural form that adds height and softness to any garden design. Slender, upright stems carry clusters of small, vibrant purple flowers that seem to float above the foliage, attracting bees, butterflies and other pollinators in droves. This plant is particularly valued for its long flowering season, often blooming from late spring through to early autumn in Melbourne gardens. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, tolerating periods of drought once established. Its open habit allows it to integrate seamlessly into mixed plantings without overwhelming neighbouring plants, and its ability to self-seed ensures its presence in the garden year after year. Despite its delicate appearance, Verbena bonariensis is hardy and adaptable, offering both resilience and visual impact across the seasons.

Form:
Shrub - Clumping / Grass-like / Mounding
Perennial

Mature Size:
Height: 1.2–2 m
Width: 45–60 cm

Aspect:
Full Sun
Part Shade

Flowering:
Flowers in Spring
Flowers in Summer
Flowers in Autumn

Flower Colour:
Purple
Lavender

Key Attributes:
Suitable for Pots
Bee Attracting
Bird Attracting
Herbaceous
Perennial
Suitable for Cottage Gardens
Drought Tolerant Once Established
Self-Seeding (May Naturalise)

Toxicity:
Generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets.

Companion Plants:
Salvia nemorosa
Echinacea purpurea
Achillea millefolium
Rudbeckia hirta
Gaura lindheimeri