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How to Grow Verbena

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated Sources
Verbena (Verbena hybrida)

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Supplies You'll Need

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Plant Overview

Scientific Name Verbena hybrida
Category flower
Days to Maturity 85 days
Starting Method Start Indoors

Growing Requirements

Sun

Full Sun (6-8 hours)

Water

Moderate (1 inch/week)

Spacing

12" apart

Depth

0.125" deep

Height

6-18"

Germination

14-21 days

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Seed Saving Guide

Moderate
Many varieties are F1 hybrid — look for OP/heirloom types

When to Harvest Seed

Allow flower clusters to dry on the plant. Collect dry seed clusters.

Processing

Break apart dry clusters to release seeds, dry 1 week in open envelope.

Seed Viability

Up to 2 years when stored cool, dark, and dry.

Pro Tip

Most garden verbenas are F1 hybrids. Verbena bonariensis is a good open-pollinated alternative that grows true from seed.

Seed Storage Supplies

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Raised Bed Planting Guides

A 4×8 bed fits 32 plants of Verbena. See plant counts, spacing grids, and companion pairings for every bed size →

Verbena Planting Calendar by Zone

Verbena Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Verbena? +

Start Verbena seeds indoors 8 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant outdoors 2 weeks after the last frost. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your ZIP code or city.

How long does Verbena take to grow? +

Verbena typically blooms in about 85 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Should I start Verbena indoors or direct sow? +

Verbena should be started indoors 8 weeks before the last frost date. This gives seedlings time to establish before being transplanted outside after frost danger has passed.

How much sun does Verbena need? +

Verbena requires full sun (6-8 hours) to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Verbena? +

Space Verbena plants 12 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

How much water does Verbena need? +

Verbena has moderate (1 inch/week) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Verbena? +

Yes — seed saving difficulty for Verbena is rated moderate. Allow flower clusters to dry on the plant. Collect dry seed clusters. Break apart dry clusters to release seeds, dry 1 week in open envelope.

How long do Verbena seeds last in storage? +

Properly dried and stored Verbena seeds remain viable for up to 2 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Are Verbena seeds open-pollinated? +

Many commonly sold Verbena varieties are F1 hybrids, meaning seeds saved from them will not grow true to the parent plant. For reliable seed saving, look specifically for open-pollinated or heirloom varieties.

About Verbena

Trailing or mounding annual covered with clusters of colorful flowers all season. Excellent for containers, hanging baskets, and garden borders. Drought tolerant.

Expect your Verbena to be ready for harvest in approximately 85 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.