perennialN. America Native

Homestead Red Verbena

Verbena canadensis 'Homestead Red'

The Story

Plant Bio

Verbena canadensis, or Rose Verbena, is a trailing, mat-forming perennial known for its long bloom season. It produces abundant clusters of flowers from spring until frost.

'Homestead Red' is a vigorous, heat and drought-tolerant cultivar featuring vibrant red flower clusters. It is excellent as a groundcover or for spilling over walls and containers.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesVibrant red flowers add striking color to borders and wild gardens.
Practical UsesDrought tolerant, requiring minimal watering once established.
Ecological BenefitsAttracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
SpeciesVerbena canadensisRose Verbena

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
  3. Plant in full sun for vibrant blooms and healthy growth.
  4. Water deeply once a week, allowing soil to dry between watering.
  5. Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
  6. Divide clumps every 2-3 years to rejuvenate plants and control spread.

Pro Tip

Use a sandy or loamy soil with good drainage to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
  • Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
  • Provide full sun for optimal flowering

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
  • Don’t fertilize excessively, as it can reduce flowering
  • Refrain from planting in heavy, poorly-drained soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid border plantWildflower meadow accentColorful groundcover

Companion Plants

CoreopsisBlack-eyed Susan EchinaceaLavender

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Homestead Red Verbena questions

What zones can Homestead Red Verbena grow in?

Homestead Red Verbena is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Homestead Red Verbena deer resistant?

Yes — Homestead Red Verbena is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Homestead Red Verbena bloom?

Homestead Red Verbena typically blooms in spring to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Homestead Red Verbena need full sun?

Homestead Red Verbena does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Homestead Red Verbena drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Homestead Red Verbena handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Homestead Red Verbena with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.