Climbing Verbena
glandularia pumila
Also known as: ["Climbing Vervain","Small-leaved Verbena"]
Overview
A trailing or climbing perennial herb native to North America, known for its delicate, fragrant flowers and attractive foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Genus: | Glandularia |
| Botanical Name: | Glandularia pumila |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sunny to partially shaded spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- 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.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during growing season; major pruning in early spring if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but prefers shade from intense afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun if moving from shade. Protect from harsh midday sun to prevent leaf scorch. Indoors, place near an east or west-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Can tolerate cooler conditions down to 50°F (10°C) but avoid frost.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; maintain stable temperatures; monitor with a thermometer.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop feeding in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method. Take 3–4 inch cuttings just below a node.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F/18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–3 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; deadhead spent flowers by cutting just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/damaged growth; shape evenly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 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 pot. G. pumila prefers slightly root-bound conditions but benefits from fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in shade for a day.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then stop to avoid waterlogging. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
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
Leaf yellowing or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf necrosis if prolonged below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a space heater if needed; insulate pots with bubble wrap in cold climates.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat (above 85°F/29°C) can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure consistent watering to prevent dehydration.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth only; avoid contact with leaves; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGlandularia pumila is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicGlandularia pumila is not considered toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicGlandularia pumila is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Glandularia pumila be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. It is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does Glandularia pumila attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its fragrant flowers.
Q: Can Glandularia pumila be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, but ensure it has support for climbing or trailing growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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