Vervain

Vervain  (Verbena)

Vervain (Verbena) we mainly know as that beautiful airy plant which attract countless butterflies. There are other species which flowering wise, do not do under to the tall ones, and also attract plenty insects. Not all species of Vervain are fully hardy with us. In any case you should ensure good drainage and a covering of leaves in winter. Also cutting the plant back after flowering will prolong its life. Leave one or two stems so that Vervain can self-seed if you so wish. Vervain wants a spot in the full sun, in normal soil. American Vervain (Verbena hastata) roots near the surface and nead moisture retaining soil (compost). The Tall Vervains (Verbena bonariensis) are usefull to give freshly planted borders some body. Also the plant will self-seed, which is good because once you have had these plants you will never want to be without anymore. The lower species of Vervain are good in the border or rockery and combine well with ornamental grasses, Bee Blossom (Gaura), Tickseed (Coreopsis) and Day Lily (Hemerocallis).