• Verbena bonariensis
  • Verbena bonariensis
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Verbena bonariensis

Tall Verbena

£6.99
£6.99
Verbena bonariensis produces clusters of small purple flowers on tall, airy stems that sway beautifully in the breeze and attract clouds of butterflies.
  • Attracts butterflies and bees
  • Self-seeds for a naturalised effect
  • Elegant, see-through form
Size

  • Aspect

    Full sun

  • Hardiness

    Half hardy

  • Flowers

    Summer to Autumn

  • Soil type

    Well-drained, Loamy, Sandy

Verbena bonariensis
Verbena bonariensis

  • Why we like this plant

    Ideal for modern and naturalistic plantings, Verbena bonariensis offers exceptional pollinator appeal, movement, and height without blocking light to shorter plants. A must-have for wildlife-friendly and low-maintenance gardens.

  • About this plant

    Verbena bonariensis is a tall, slender perennial native to South America, highly valued in UK gardens for its transparent form and extended blooming season. Its branching stems carry small, lavender-purple flowers in tight clusters, appearing to float above the rest of the border. Loved by pollinators, this plant is often found weaving through prairie-style plantings, gravel gardens, and informal borders, adding both structure and a sense of lightness. It self-seeds readily, creating a naturalised look over time without becoming invasive. 

  • Key features

    • Tall, wiry stems with purple flower clusters
    • Very attractive to bees and butterflies
    • Excellent for adding vertical interest

  • Eventual height and
    spread

    100–150cm high × 30–45cm wide

  • Growth
    habit

    Upright, airy, branching

  • Moisture

    Moist but well-drained

  • Position in
    the Garden

    Middle to back of borders, wildlife gardens, prairie-style planting

Planting guide

Plant in full sun in well-drained soil. Allow at least 30–45cm between plants for airflow and visual impact. Works beautifully interplanted among grasses and other airy perennials.

Care tips

Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering and prevent excessive self-seeding if desired. Cut back to ground level in late autumn or early spring. Mulch lightly and apply a general-purpose fertiliser in spring to support vigorous growth.

Winter care

While considered half-hardy in colder regions, Verbena bonariensis often survives mild UK winters, especially with a layer of mulch to protect the crown. In frost-prone areas, treat as an annual or collect seed for sowing the following year.