Common Vervain
verbena officinalis
Also known as: ["Simplicity","Herb of the Cross","Sweat Plant"]
Overview
A perennial herb with delicate, lobed leaves and spikes of small, lavender flowers, historically used in traditional medicine.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","medicinal use"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Genus: | Verbena |
| Botanical Name: | Verbena officinalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate poor soils but thrives with enrichment.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
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 plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing in shaded corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overwatering; use a soil mix with good aeration.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate cooler conditions but not frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost tea for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be used but may take longer to establish.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch 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.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; plants can be transplanted after 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag or dome.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems; remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune dead or damaged parts; shape the plant; remove spent flowers.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Select new pot; prepare fresh soil mix; inspect roots; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn purple or brown; risk of frost damage or death in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; use frost cloth for outdoor plants; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowers may fade quickly; growth may become stunted.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; mist foliage during extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label; dilute correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicVerbena officinalis is not considered toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk of poisoning when ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicVerbena officinalis is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no significant reports of adverse effects when ingested in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicVerbena officinalis is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has been used historically in traditional medicine for various ailments without significant toxicity reports.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Verbena officinalis safe for pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats, so ingestion should be avoided.
Q: What are the traditional uses of Common Vervain?
A: Historically, it has been used for medicinal purposes, including as a remedy for anxiety and digestive issues.
Q: How should Verbena officinalis be cared for?
A: It thrives in full sun with well-drained soil and requires minimal watering once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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