Brazilian Vervain
verbena brasiliensis
Also known as: ["Brazilian Verbena","Wild Verbena"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to South America, known for its small, lavender flowers and rapid growth.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Genus: | Verbena |
| Botanical Name: | Verbena brasiliensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter. Cactus or succulent mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead flowers weekly during blooming; light pruning every 2–3 months if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an overgrown plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moved from shade. Protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates to prevent scorching. Ensure good air circulation if grown in dense shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is best; rotate pots for even growth; avoid deep shade for flowering.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions, ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers frost-free environments.
Protect from frost; ensure good air flow in heat; adjust watering with temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leggy growth; fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (if using).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Promote bushier growth and more blooms by removing spent flowers and leggy stems.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary for container-grown plants to maintain vigor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues. Allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter or dormant periods. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in extreme heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of root damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Provide frost protection (e.g., mulch, row covers); move potted plants indoors; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dry conditions.
Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide afternoon shade; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season. Reduce or stop fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicVerbena brasiliensis is not toxic to cats. Ingestion does not typically cause adverse effects or physiological harm.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicVerbena brasiliensis is not toxic to dogs. Ingestion does not typically cause adverse effects or physiological harm.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicVerbena brasiliensis is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Verbena brasiliensis invasive?
A: Yes, it is considered an invasive weed in many regions due to its rapid growth and spread.
Q: Does Brazilian Vervain attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How should Brazilian Vervain be controlled if it becomes invasive?
A: Mechanical removal, herbicides, or biological control methods may be employed to manage its spread.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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