Verbena stricta aka Hoary Vervain

If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Hoary Vervain is a great choice to test your gardening skills.

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

Hoary 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.

Hoary Vervain requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Hoary Verbena is always in the right place to thrive.

During the cold period, it is common for Hoary Vervain to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

The Hoary Vervain should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

New growth will sprout from the top of the Hoary Vervain as it grows vertically.

Hoary Vervain’s native range is Central N. America - Ontario and Ohio to South Dakota and Wyoming, south to Tennessee and Texas.