Spectacular in borders adding height and interest
Attracts clouds of bees and butterflies
Most effective when planted in large swathes
Description
This increasingly popular, first year flowering perennial produces robust plants, with wiry stems topped by floating clouds of eye-catching, rosy lavender blooms. Plant Verbena bonariensis amongst other perennials to add height and an air of tranquillity in your borders. Height: 120cm (48"). Spread: 45cm (18").
Sowing
Sow Verbena from February to April on the surface of a good free draining, damp seed compost and lightly cover the seed with vermiculite. Place in a propagator or seal the seed tray inside a polythene bag, maintaining a temperature of 24-27C (75-81F) until after germination which usually takes 14-21 days. Do not exclude light as this helps germination. When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into trays or 7.5cm (3") pots and grow on in cooler conditions until large enough to plant outdoors.
When all risk of frost has passed, gradually acclimatise Verbena plants to outdoor conditions prior to transplanting them outdoors in any well drained soil in full sun. Plant Verbena at a distance of 30cm (12") apart.
More Info
Feed and water frequently throughout the summer to ensure an endless supply of flowers. Verbena flowers do not require dead heading.
