Western vervain, Wild verbena
verbena lasiostachys
Also known as: ["Wild verbena","Clasping vervain"]
Overview
A perennial herb native to western North America, known for its delicate lavender flowers and clasp-like leaf arrangement.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Genus: | Verbena |
| Botanical Name: | Verbena lasiostachys |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during growing season; major pruning in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant for rejuvenation pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily; tolerates some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoids frost; thrives in moderate climates.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; take 4–6 inch cuttings from healthy stems; remove lower leaves and plant in moist soil or water.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing; avoid dormant periods.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture until roots establish.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or perlite and peat moss blend; can also root in water.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools to prevent disease; maintain humidity with a plastic bag or propagator; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut back leggy stems to encourage branching; remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts; also prune after flowering to promote new blooms.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape the plant; remove spent flowers; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or dormancy.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; ensure excess water exits the pot to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; increase during hot, dry periods.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; cold damage like blackened leaves or stem dieback in frost.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause tissue damage; frost can kill tender parts of the plant.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover or move indoors; avoid placing near cold drafts; ensure adequate light in cooler conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicVerbena lasiostachys is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known toxic compounds that would harm feline health.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicVerbena lasiostachys is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects on canine health when ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicVerbena lasiostachys is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known significant toxic effects on human physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Verbena lasiostachys toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How much maintenance does it require?
A: It requires low maintenance and is drought-tolerant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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