This verbena's velvety crimson flowers are a favourite for pollinators and gardeners alike! Borderline hardy in the UK, this plant will need some protection over winter.
Add a splash of deep, vibrant crimson to your garden with this Verbena. The combination of its beautiful flowers and textured, serrated leaves adds interest, colour and vibrancy to your garden, whether in a decorative border or a container. Growing up to 35cm tall in a single year's cycle, this plant is perennial in its native climate but often grown as an annual in the UK unless it can be kept warm and frost-free over winter. Find a spot with well-draining soil and plenty of sun and you'll be rewarded with this plant's gorgeous blooms and textured foliage.
Annual
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Flower: foliage plant with blooms growing up to 35cm
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Flowers June to September
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Scientific Name
Verbena x hybrida 'Showboat Dark Red' (sacred bough, hybrid species, variety: Showboat Dark Red)
Common Name
Red Verbena, Showboat Dark Red Verbena
Origin
Verbenas are native to South America.
Pruning Tips
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage further blooming; cut back any foliage remaining from the previous year in spring.
Wildlife Value
Verbena supplies nectar for butterflies and nectar-drinking moths and pollen for bees. Leave the seedheads in autumn to provide food for birds.
Positioning
Verbenas like full sun best, but can stand partial shade too.
Water
Verbenas are thirsty, so make sure to water in dry weather- especially if they are growing in a pot! Try not to wet the flowers when watering.
Soil
Ensure your soil drains well when you plant your verbena; adding horticultural sand or grit can help with this!
Food
Planted in the ground, there should be enough nutrients for your Verbena. If in a container, it will need regular fertilising; use a feed high in potassium every few weeks (or as the dosage on your feed suggests) throughout the growing season.
Pet-safe
Yes- no toxicity reported, though it's best for the plant and your pets if they don't nibble too much!
Sprouts Top Tips
You can take hardwood cuttings to propagate in the autumn; this gives you an insurance in case of cold winters and is also a good option if you want to move your verbena.
