This is a dwarf variety of the Latin American wildflower that is very popular with butterflies and also attracts bees and other pollinators. It later provides seed for garden birds. These plants have an open structure so they mingle well with other plants. Grows to 70cm tall and 45cm across in full sun and a moist but well-drained soil. Produces purple flowers from June to October.
Cut back last year's growth in spring after the new shoots have started to emerge.
Purpletop Vervain / Verbena bonariensis 'Vanity'
Position: Flower border / Container
Flowering months: Jun / Jul / Aug / Sep / Oct
Light: Full sun / Mix of sun and shade
Soil: Clay / Loam / Chalk / Sand
Tested in our local soil (t.i.o.l.s.): Yes (but avoid heavy clay)
Drainage: Well drained / Moist but well-drained (never waterlogged)
Life cycle: Perennial (lives for many years)
Hardiness: Hardy to about -8oC so add some mulch if a particularly cold snap is forecast.
Over winter: Dies back (deciduous)
Drought tolerant: Yes
