Also known as American Blue Vervain · American Vervain · Blue Vervain
Swamp Verbena (Verbena hastata) is a moisture-loving perennial herb with slender spikes of lilac-purple flowers that attract pollinators.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Thrives in at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Can tolerate some shade, but flowering may be reduced.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Prefers moist to wet soil conditions. Avoid letting soil dry out completely.
Clay, Loam, Sand, Silicate
50% intensity
Adaptable
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 4-8. Prefers moderate temperatures but can withstand heat.
Low
25% intensity
Generally does not require frequent fertilization. A light feeding in spring is sufficient.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Swamp Verbena thrives in consistently moist soil. Water regularly to keep the soil damp, especially during dry periods. Avoid waterlogged conditions for extended periods, as this can lead to root rot.
Check the soil moisture regularly, particularly in warmer weather.
Prune Swamp Verbena in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This encourages bushier growth and more abundant flowering.
Deadheading spent flowers throughout the blooming season can also promote further blooms and maintain a tidy appearance.
Swamp Verbena can be propagated from seeds sown in the spring, either indoors or directly outdoors after the last frost. It can also be propagated by taking stem cuttings in late spring or early summer.
Cuttings should be rooted in moist potting mix.
Repotting is generally only necessary for container-grown plants. If the roots are circling the pot or the plant appears root-bound, repot into a slightly larger container in the spring.
Use well-draining potting mix, amending with compost for better moisture retention.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Swamp Verbena (Verbena hastata)
Where Swamp Verbena (Verbena hastata) is found
Density
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10 known issues from plant disease data
Rhizoctonia root and crown rot in Verbena causes dry brown cankers at the soil line, yellowing, wilt, and collapse.
Alternaria leaf spot on Verbena causes brown to black leaf spots that enlarge, show target-like rings, and lead to leaf drop.
Cercospora leaf spot on Verbena causes brown irregular spots on older leaves that spread upward and can trigger leaf drop.
Bidens mottle on Verbena causes leaf mottling, distortion, and stunted growth, leaving plants weak and uneven in habit.
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Genus | Verbena |
| Species | Verbena hastata |
Similar in genus Verbena
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
