Hoary Vervain
verbena stricta
Also known as: ["Wild Vervain","Rigid Vervain"]
Overview
A hardy perennial herb native to North America, known for its slender stems and clusters of small, lavender flowers.
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 stricta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or border in open, sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30 to 40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead spent flowers regularly; light pruning every 4–6 weeks during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyModerate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate pots for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; place outdoor plants in open, sunny areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)
Use raised beds in heavy soils; avoid overwatering to prevent compaction; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates heat but may struggle below 50°F (10°C); thrives in warm, dry conditions.
Monitor nighttime temperatures; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; use a low-nitrogen formula for flowering plants; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
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 rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late 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 of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; plants can be transplanted in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage bushiness; cut above leaf nodes for new growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape and vigor.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent flowers; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh, well-draining soil; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; avoid wetting leaves; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until the soil is moist but not waterlogged; ensure water penetrates the root ball; allow excess to drain away; water early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter or drought; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; susceptible to frost damage.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may decrease; soil dries out quickly.
Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide afternoon shade; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicVerbena stricta is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known adverse physiological effects when ingested by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicVerbena stricta is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects when ingested by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicVerbena stricta is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in typical amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Verbena stricta toxic to pets?
A: No, Verbena stricta is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should Verbena stricta be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.
Q: Does Verbena stricta attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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