This vibrant, free-flowering plant produces clusters of rich dark blue to violet blooms that bring long-lasting colour to summer planting schemes. Verbena ‘Vanessa Dark Blue’ is prized for its ability to flower continuously from late spring through to autumn, creating a soft, airy effect that weaves beautifully through borders and containers.

Verbena ‘Vanessa Dark Blue’, commonly known as Verbena, is loved for its extended flowering season and pollinator-friendly nature. Its gently spreading habit and delicate flower heads make it perfect for softening edges, adding height variation, and creating relaxed, naturalistic planting combinations.

Tender Perennial often grown as an annual in the UK

Bushy, Spreading, Long-flowering

Flowers: May – October
Foliage: May – October

Scientific Name
Verbena ‘Vanessa Dark Blue’

Common Name
Verbena

Origin
Hybrid cultivar derived from species native to South America

Pruning Tips
Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering. Light trimming throughout the season will encourage bushier growth and more blooms

Wildlife Value
Highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

Positioning
Full sun in a sheltered spot. Ideal for containers, hanging baskets, and the front or middle of borders

Water
Water regularly, especially in containers, but allow the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overly wet conditions

Soil
Well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Performs best in light, free-draining compost

Food
Feed every 1 to 2 weeks during the growing season to support continuous flowering

Pet-safe
Generally considered non-toxic, but not widely studied

Sprouts Top Tips
Mix with softer trailing plants or grasses to create a relaxed, layered look. Regular feeding and deadheading will keep it flowering right through to early autumn.