'Homestead Purple' Verbena is a semi-evergreen groundcover with beautiful purple flowers fall, spring, summer and even sometimes in the winter. This plant of the month is located at the Wilson Ag. Center in the butterfly garden near the building.

This perennial is a must for the sun-loving garden. It is a vigorous perennial with 3-inch royal purple flowers. The purple flower color combines well with yellow flowers and yellow foliage plants.

Plant 'Homestead Purple' in a warm, full-sun location with well-drained soil from early spring until early fall. Clumps can be dug up and divided during the warmer months. Although, a drought tolerant plant according to the literature if you do plant or divide verbena during our summer heats you will have to provide adequate moisture until established. You can space this plant 5 feet apart since it is quick growing with a groundcover growth habit.

This plant is quite durable and will withstand some foot traffic from pets or children. It also is relatively resistant to pests. Shearing the plant back can increase flower display. Do not overfertilize this plant or only foliage will be produced and not flowers.

Many verbenas are annuals or tender perennials. In cold winters many die. 'Homestead Purple' is a perennial but in cold winters you may need to take some pruning shears to the plant and cut off any cold damage.

If you enjoy bold splashes of cold and purple and yellow flower combinations 'Homestead Purple' Verbena is the plant for you.

Home gardening questions are answered during office hours, Monday and Friday, 1-3 PM, 237-0113.

Date Created: 12/05/00.