De la Mina Verbena
Verbena lilacina 'De La Mina'
Care
full sun, part shade
very low
Resistant
Friendly
Yes
Prized
San Diego County coastal sage scrub and chaparral near the coast, below 1000 ft elevation.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant De la Mina Verbena in full sun to part shade where it will get plenty of light. This California native needs excellent drainage and very little supplemental water once established, so avoid low spots that collect water or heavy clay soil. Space plants according to their mature width and plant in fall or early spring to give roots time to establish before summer heat.
After Planting
Water regularly during your first summer to help the plant establish a deep root system, then gradually reduce watering frequency as it matures - by year two, this very low water plant should thrive on rainfall alone in most Bay Area locations. Deer won't browse it, which makes it a reliable choice for gardens without fencing. The biggest mistake is overwatering; once established, treat it like the drought-tolerant native it is.
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Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
California Species of Special Concern; monarch populations declining
Wildlife Supported
Insects
Critical fuel source during spring northbound and fall southbound migration through California
Year-round in southern California; important during population booms
Multiple generations utilize nectar resources
Multiple generations utilize nectar throughout growing season
Crepuscular and nocturnal foraging during warm months
Birds
Year-round resident in California; important supplemental nectar source outside prime flowering periods