Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Verbena bonariensis
Purpletop Vervain
- Family
- Verbenaceae
- Height
- 3 to 6 feet
- Width
- 1 to 2 feet
- Flower color
- Clusters of small, purple flowers
- Foliage color
- Dark green, slender leaves
- Bloom time
- Summer to fall
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Low to moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; deadhead to encourage continuous blooming
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 7 to 11
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
About this plant
Verbena bonariensis, commonly known as tall verbena or purpletop vervain, is a graceful perennial known for its airy structure and clusters of small, vibrant purple flowers. Blooming from mid-summer to early fall, it produces delicate, globe-shaped flower heads held aloft on tall, slender stems. The small, tubular flowers are highly attractive to pollinators, including bees and butterflies, and create a striking contrast against the plant's thin, wiry stems.
Native to South America, particularly Brazil and Argentina, Verbena bonariensis has become a favorite in ornamental gardens for its ability to add height and a sense of lightness to borders, meadow plantings, and cottage gardens. Its long-lasting blooms and ability to blend seamlessly with other plants make it a popular choice for adding a naturalistic feel to garden landscapes.
Works well in
Borders · Sun Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Hummingbird Gardens · Waterwise Gardens
Companion plants
Garden phlox · Black-eyed Susans · Daylilies · Lavender · Coreopsis · Russian sage
Design tip
Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. In full sun it holds its shape best, and grouping several together keeps the color strong enough to be seen from across the garden.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen in the perennial border at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
