perennial

Blue Princess Verbena

Verbena bonariensis 'Blue Princess'

The Story

Plant Bio

Verbena bonariensis 'Blue Princess' is a tall, airy perennial known for its vibrant blue flowers and long blooming period.

This cultivar features a more compact habit compared to other Verbena bonariensis varieties, making it suitable for smaller gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesVibrant blue flowers add striking color to borders and gardens, attracting pollinators like butterflies and bees.
Practical UsesDrought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering and maintenance.
Ecological BenefitsSupports local pollinator populations and enhances biodiversity.
SpeciesVerbena bonariensisPurpletop Vervain

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate, drought-tolerant

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root growth.
  3. Thin seedlings to promote airflow and reduce competition for nutrients.
  4. Water deeply once a week during dry spells to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  5. Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season for vigorous growth.
  6. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming and remove any diseased parts.

Pro Tip

Use a sunny location with well-draining soil for optimal growth and flowering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
  • Provide full sun for vibrant blooms
  • Feed with a balanced fertilizer monthly
  • Deadhead to prolong flowering
  • Prune lightly to shape the plant

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Do not plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
  • Skip fertilizing in late fall
  • Don’t allow plants to sit in waterlogged soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Spring Cleanup
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Airy perennial borderWildflower meadowButterfly-attracting garden

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Blue Princess Verbena questions

What zones can Blue Princess Verbena grow in?

Blue Princess Verbena is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Blue Princess Verbena deer resistant?

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

When does Blue Princess Verbena bloom?

Blue Princess Verbena typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Blue Princess Verbena need full sun?

Blue Princess Verbena does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Blue Princess Verbena drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Blue Princess 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.