Glandularia peruviana

Glandularia peruviana

The fast-growing groundcover with its colorful flowers reaches six inches or taller, with a three- to six-foot spread. It trails and spreads along the ground, producing new herbaceous roots as it grows to form a dense mat. It has finely cut and lightly serrated deep green foliage. The Peruvian verbena produces tiny clusters of colorful flowers on its terminal ends in fuchsia, pink, red, white, or purple, depending upon one of the many varieties available. Flowers appear in early spring, taper off during the summer, and then bloom again in the fall, attracting butterflies and bees. The plant needs ample to moderate water to produce flowers. The Peruvian verbena can be planted in full sun, reflected heat, and well-draining, fertile soil. It is hardy to about twenty-four degrees Fahrenheit. Verbena is not a long-lived plant and will need to be replanted every few years. Provide a light application of ammonium phosphate fertilizer in the spring to encourage new growth and flowers. Lightly prune after it blooms to keep it neat and compact. Use it as a transitional plant, in rock gardens, cascading over containers, or in low planters. It combines nicely with wildflowers and other perennial groundcovers. The Peruvian verbena is a great choice for low-water-use landscapes. This plant is native to South Africa where it grows at elevations of 800 to 2,500 feet.

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