Homestead Purple verbena (Photo by Allen Owings)

Of all the perennial verbenas on the market today, the outstanding variety continues to be Homestead Purple. And this Verbena canadensis is truly perennial.

Although perennial verbenas are generally planted in spring, we need to consider fall and winter planting of perennial verbenas for best performance the first year.

Peak blooming time for this variety in south Louisiana is late February through May. By planting in spring, you miss the prime blooming months. Homestead Purple is cold-hardy, so that’s not a concern.

All verbenas lag in the summertime, but blossoms return in fall.

For best results, verbenas need adequate spacing and occasional shearing to bring back nice, new foliage growth.

Allen Owings
Rick Bogren