Verbena bonariensis aka Purpletop Vervain

Taxonomy

Verbena bonariensis, also known as purpletop vervain, clustertop vervain, Argentinian vervain, tall verbena, or pretty verbena, is a member of the verbena family and can be cultivated as a flowering annual or herbaceous perennial plant. It is native to tropical South America, specifically from Colombia and Brazil to Argentina and Chile. This tall and slender-stemmed perennial can reach heights of up to 6 ft (180 cm) and spreads to about 3 ft (90 cm) wide. It has square stems with long internodes and oblong green leaves that turn red in autumn. From summer to autumn, clusters of small purple flowers bloom, providing a good nectar source for pollinating insects. The plant develops a woody base as it matures. The fragrant flowers are located in tight clusters on terminal and axillary stems, and they continue to bloom from mid-summer until fall frost. The specific epithet of bonariensis refers to its origin from Buenos Aires, Argentina, with "Buenos" meaning "good" and "aires" meaning "air." The name Verbena is of Latin origin, meaning "sacred bough," and it is derived from the leafy twigs of vervaine, historically used in rituals and medicine. In USA horticulture, it is also referred to as "purpletop" and "South American vervain."

Common names

Purpletop Vervain, Argentine Vervain, South American Vervain

How to care for Purpletop Vervain

Difficulty

Purpletop Vervain requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Purpletop Vervain should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Purpletop Vervain loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Purpletop Vervain requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Purpletop Vervain will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The Purpletop Vervain should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.


More info:
Wikipedia