Vervain
Verbena lasiostachys var. scabrida
Care
full sun
low
Fast, Medium, Slow, Standing; Tolerates a variety of soils including sand and clay as long as adequate moisture is present.
3–3ft tall , 3–3ft wide
Mar-Nov
Deciduous
Friendly
Prized
Grasslands and disturbed areas throughout California, particularly in the Central Valley and coastal regions, below 2000 ft elevation.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant your vervain in full sun in a spot where it has room to spread - this is an aggressive spreader, so give it space or plan to contain it. It's not picky about soil; it tolerates sand, clay, and everything in between as long as drainage is adequate and moisture is present. Plant in early spring when the plant starts growing quickly, and space according to how large you want it to get.
After Planting
Water weekly for the first summer to establish it, then cut back to once a week or less during summer once established. Your vervain will go completely dormant and disappear in winter, which is normal - don't panic. The #1 mistake is underwatering; even though it's a low-water plant once established, it needs consistent moisture in the beginning and actually thrives in wet places, so err on the side of keeping the soil moist rather than letting it dry out completely.
Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
California Species of Special Concern
Wildlife Supported
Insects
Multiple generations; important native host plant in California
Multiple generations utilize as larval host plant; primary food source for caterpillars
Early season larval host; caterpillars feed on foliage in spring months
Generalist larval host plant; multiple generations per season
Multiple generations; caterpillars feed on foliage throughout warm months
Early season larval host for California populations
Larval host plant during summer breeding period
Larval host plant during breeding season