Verbena peruviana
Peruvian mock vervain is a low, spreading species valued for vivid red to pink flower clusters. It forms a ground-hugging mat that trails over rocks and edges. Bloom is heaviest in spring and again in fall, with light flowering in midsummer heat. Plants prefer full sun, well-drained soil, and modest water. Hardiness varies by selection and climate, so many gardeners grow it as an annual outside warm winter zones.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: species (Peruvian mock vervain; often listed as *Glandularia peruviana*)
- Height × spread: 6-12 in × 1-3 ft (15-30 cm × 30-90 cm)
- Bloom window: spring to fall
- Color & flower form: flattened clusters, commonly scarlet; pink, white, and purple selections exist
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: grown as annual in most regions; perennial hardiness varies by selection
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown / n/a / native to South America
- Pet safety: unknown / sources differ
How it differs
- Carpeting habit stays low and trails rather than forming tall stems.
- Strongest bloom in spring and fall; summer bloom pauses in extreme heat.
- Generally less cold hardy than *V. canadensis* selections.
- True red tones are common among its cultivars.
Strengths
- Cascades over rocks, walls, and container rims.
- Good heat tolerance with adequate drainage.
- Long season of color with deadheading.
- Useful in water-wise plantings once established.
Care in one minute
- Plant in full sun with excellent drainage.
- Water to establish; then provide moderate, infrequent water.
- Fertilize lightly in spring; avoid excessive nitrogen.
- Shear after peak flush to encourage rebloom.
- In frost-prone climates, grow as an annual or protect in winter.
Watch‑outs
- Perennial hardiness is variable by cultivar and region.
- Declines in poorly drained or overwatered soils.
- Regular deadheading needed to maintain flowering.
Best uses (tags)
containers, rock gardens, edging, slopes, pollinators, heat-tolerant
Provenance note
Now widely treated as *Glandularia peruviana*. Many color forms are in cultivation and used in warm-climate bedding and containers.
References
- Royal Horticultural Society – Glandularia peruviana
- Kew Plants of the World Online – Glandularia peruviana
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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