Planting and caring for verbena: the complete guide

Planting and care for verbena : successfully growing this aromatic plant requires well-drained soil, a sunny location and a few simple but regular actions.

• Choose a warm location, sheltered from the wind
• Plant in spring, after the last frosts
• Water moderately, without letting the water stagnate
• Prune regularly to stimulate growth
• Protect or bring the plant indoors during winter depending on the variety

Why grow verbena at home?

Verbena is one of the most popular aromatic plants in French gardens. Its lemony scent, elongated leaves, and hardiness make it a top choice for balconies, terraces, and flowerbeds. It's equally suited to evening herbal teas, cooking, or making homemade natural products.

Planting and caring for verbena doesn't require advanced horticultural skills. A few basic rules are all it takes to obtain a vigorous plant, abundant in leaves and resistant to ordinary weather conditions. It's also a plant that attracts pollinators, a valuable asset for any garden.

Understanding the benefits of verbena can strengthen your motivation to grow it yourself: having a fresh source at hand is a real advantage to fully enjoy its properties.

The different varieties of verbena: which one to choose?

Before discussing verbena planting and care in detail, it is helpful to distinguish between the main varieties available. Each has its own specific characteristics in terms of cultivation, hardiness, and uses.

• Lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora) : best known for its intense lemon scent. It is used in herbal teas and in cooking. Not very hardy, it is susceptible to frost.
• Common vervain (Verbena officinalis) : a more discreet European wild plant with small purple flowers. It grows easily in poor soils.
• Garden verbena (Verbena hybrida) : an ornamental variety with colorful flowers, widely used in flowerbeds and planters. It is cultivated as an annual in our latitudes.
• (Bordeaux verbenaVerbena bonariensis) : tall, slender stem, purple flowers, much appreciated by butterflies. Hardy in regions with mild climates.

The choice of variety directly determines the care required. Lemon verbena, the most commonly cultivated for its aromatic properties, needs special attention in winter. Ornamental varieties are more forgiving but less suitable for cooking or infusions.

If you would like to learn more about the taste of verbena before choosing your variety, a dedicated article will help you guide your selection according to your taste preferences.

When to plant verbena: the right time

The ideal time for planting and caring for verbena is in the spring, between April and June depending on the region. It's important to wait until the risk of frost has passed, as lemon verbena, in particular, does not tolerate freezing temperatures well.

In regions with mild climates (Mediterranean zone, Atlantic coast), planting is possible from mid-March. In colder areas (northeast, mountains), it is best to wait until May. Planting too early exposes the young plant to late frosts that can destroy it completely.

For ornamental varieties such as garden verbena, plants are generally available in garden centers from April onwards. They can be planted directly in pots or in the ground, provided the weather is favorable.

• April-May: ideal for lemon verbena in most regions
• March: possible in the south and on the Atlantic coast
• June: still possible if watering is guaranteed
• Autumn: not recommended for non-hardy varieties

Choosing the right location for your verbena

Location is one of the most crucial factors for the successful planting and care of verbena. This plant loves sun and warmth. It thrives in south or southwest-facing locations, sheltered from cold winds.

A minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day is recommended to obtain aromatic leaves with a high concentration of essential oils. In shade or partial shade, the plant will grow but will produce less fragrance and remain weaker.

Verbena tolerates summer heat well, including in Mediterranean regions. However, it appreciates slight protection from drying winds, which can burn the leaves and accelerate soil evaporation.

• Exposure: full sun, minimum 6 hours per day
• Orientation: preferably south or southwest
• Protection: sheltered from cold winds and drafts
• In a pot: place on a sunny terrace or balcony

What type of soil is best for verbena: drainage and composition

Planting and caring for verbena thrives best in light, well-drained, and slightly fertile soil. It tolerates poor soils but does not thrive in heavy, compacted, or waterlogged soils. Unamended clay soil is its main enemy: the roots rot quickly if it becomes too wet.

A sandy or loamy soil, enriched with a little mature compost, makes the ideal substrate. A neutral to slightly alkaline pH is perfectly suitable. If your garden has heavy soil, incorporate river sand or perlite to lighten the structure before planting.

When planting in a pot, use a mixture of universal potting soil and sand (approximately two-thirds to one-third). Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes. A saucer filled with water should be avoided at all costs.

• Soil type: light, sandy or loamy
• Drainage: essential, avoid any stagnation
• pH: neutral to slightly alkaline
• Amendment: a small amount of mature compost
• In a pot: potting soil + sand, pot with drainage

How to plant verbena step by step

The planting technique is crucial for a successful start to the plant. For successful planting and care of verbena from the outset, here are the steps to follow when planting in open ground.

1. Prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of approximately 30 cm.
2. Incorporate mature compost or planting soil to slightly enrich the soil.
3. Dig a hole two to three times wider than the plant's root ball.
4. Water the hole thoroughly before placing the plant in place.
5. Place the root ball, ensuring that the crown is at ground level.
6. Backfill with the excavated soil, lightly compact around the root ball.
7. Water again to ensure good contact between the roots and the soil.
8. Mulch around the base with bark or straw to retain moisture.

If you are planting several plants, allow at least 50 to 60 cm between each lemon verbena plant, as it can grow quite large. For more compact ornamental varieties, a spacing of 20 to 30 cm is sufficient.

To learn more about the ideal time to harvest your leaves after planting, consult our guide on when to harvest lemon verbena to fully enjoy your crop.

Watering verbena: not too much, not too little

Watering is one of the most delicate aspects of planting and caring for verbena. This plant prefers slightly dry soil between waterings rather than constantly damp soil. Overwatering is far more harmful than underwatering.

In the ground, mature lemon verbena is often content with natural rainfall, except during periods of summer drought. In summer, watering every two to three days may be necessary if temperatures are high and there is little rain. Always water at the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the foliage.

When grown in pots, water more frequently because the potting mix dries out faster. Check the soil moisture by inserting a finger two centimeters into the soil: if it's dry, water; if it's still moist, wait. In winter, drastically reduce watering.

• Mature plants in open ground: moderate watering, depending on the weather
• In a pot: check regularly, water as soon as the soil is dry
• Summer: water more frequently during periods of intense heat
• Winter: watering very reduced, almost none for indoor plants
• Method: Water at the base of the plant, never on the leaves

Fertilization and nutrient intake

Verbena is not a heavy feeder. Soil too rich in nitrogen encourages foliage growth at the expense of fragrance. When planting and caring for verbena, moderation is key when it comes to fertilizing.

Adding mature compost at planting time is usually sufficient for the first season. The following spring, you can lightly work compost into the surface or use a slow-release natural fertilizer, low in nitrogen and high in potassium, to promote flowering and the concentration of aromatic oils.

Avoid chemical fertilizers with a high nitrogen concentration, which produce a large but fragrant plant. Organic fertilizers (composted manure, diluted nettle manure) are better suited to this type of aromatic plant.

Pruning verbena: a key step

Pruning is essential to maintain a vigorous and well-branched verbena. Without pruning, the plant tends to become leggy, bare at the base, and produce fewer aromatic leaves. Planting and caring for verbena therefore requires regular trimming with pruning shears.

Spring pruning is the most important. It is carried out when the first buds begin to appear, generally between March and April depending on the region. Cut back the previous year's stems to two-thirds of their length, just above a node or a visible bud.

Throughout the growing season, regularly pinch the tips of the stems to encourage branching and produce a denser plant. This simple operation, done with your fingers or small scissors, increases the number of growth points and boosts leaf production.

To master all the cutting techniques, our detailed article on how to prune lemon verbena will guide you step by step according to the season.

Overwintering: Protecting verbena from the cold

Managing winter is one of the major challenges of planting and caring for verbena, especially lemon verbena. This variety is not very hardy and cannot withstand severe frosts. Below a few degrees below freezing, the stems can die, or even the entire plant if the roots freeze.

In mild climates (zones 8 and above), lemon verbena can remain in the ground with winter protection: a thick layer of mulch around the base (dead leaves, straw, bark) protects the roots from frost. The above-ground stems may die back, but the plant often regrows from the base in spring.

In colder regions, it's best to bring potted plants indoors before the first frost. Place them in a frost-free location (conservatory, garage, unheated greenhouse) with minimal light. Reduce watering to the bare minimum during this dormant period.

• Mild regions: thick mulch around the base, stems left in place
• Cold regions: bring the pot indoors before the first frost
• Winter storage area: frost-free, bright if possible
• Winter watering: very reduced
• Resuming in spring: only prune after the buds have appeared

Potted verbena: specific advice

Growing verbena in pots is an excellent option for people without a garden or who want to easily bring it indoors for the winter. Planting and caring for verbena in a container requires some adjustments compared to growing it in the ground.

Choose a pot at least 30 cm in diameter for lemon verbena, which develops a fairly extensive root system. A pot that is too small will restrict growth and require very frequent watering. Make sure the pot has drainage holes and place a layer of clay pebbles or gravel at the bottom before adding the potting mix.

Repotting is necessary every two to three years, or as soon as the roots start to grow out of the drainage holes. Take this opportunity to refresh the potting mix and, if necessary, divide the plant to propagate new plants.

• Pot size: minimum 30 cm in diameter
• Drainage: layer of gravel at the bottom
• Substrate: potting soil + sand
• Repotting: every 2-3 years
• Watering: more frequent than in open ground

Diseases and pests: monitoring and action

Verbena is a relatively hardy plant, but it is not immune to some common problems. Good practices for planting and caring for verbena include regularly checking the foliage and stems.

Aphids are the most common pests. They colonize young shoots and buds, weakening the plant. A strong jet of water is often enough to dislodge them. In case of a heavy infestation, a treatment with black soap diluted in water can be effective.

Powdery mildew, a fungus that appears as a white, powdery coating on leaves, can develop in warm, humid conditions. Good air circulation around the plant and watering at the base (never on the foliage) will reduce this risk. Spider mites can also infest plants in hot, dry weather: increase the ambient humidity to discourage them.

• Aphids: water jet, diluted black soap
• Powdery mildew: ventilate, water at the base, avoid moisture on the leaves
• Red spider mites: increase ambient humidity
• Root rot: improve drainage, reduce watering

Summary table: verbena planting and care at a glance

Propagating verbena: cuttings and seeds

Planting and caring for verbena can also be done by propagating your own plants, which is economical and satisfying. Two main methods are available: cuttings and sowing seeds.

Cuttings are the simplest and most reliable method for propagating lemon verbena. In summer, take semi-ripe stems 10 to 15 cm long, remove the lower leaves, and place the base in a moist sand-potting mix. Keep the cuttings out of direct sunlight and maintain the slightly moist soil. Rooting usually occurs within a few weeks.

Sowing is more commonly used for ornamental varieties. It is done indoors between February and March, in small pots filled with fine potting soil. The seeds germinate in warm conditions (between 18 and 22 degrees Celsius). The seedlings are transplanted after germination and planted outdoors after the last frost.

• Cuttings: summer, semi-hardwood stems, rooting in a few weeks
• Sowing: February-March indoors, transplanting in spring
• Division of clumps: possible in spring during repotting

Harvesting and storing leaves

Harvesting is the culmination of all the care given to the verbena during planting and maintenance. For lemon verbena, the leaves are harvested throughout the growing season, from May to September. The concentration of aromas is at its peak just before flowering.

Pick the leaves in the morning, after the dew has evaporated but before the midday heat. This is when the aromatic compounds are at their highest. You can use the fresh leaves directly or dry them for longer storage.

To dry, spread the leaves in a thin layer on a rack or hang entire stems upside down in a dry, well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight. Once dry, store them in an airtight jar away from heat and light.

If you wish to delve deeper into the subject, our guide on when to harvest lemon verbena details the optimal periods and techniques for each use.

Uses of harvested verbena: herbal tea, cooking and well-being

Once you've mastered planting and caring for verbena, you'll have a valuable resource for many household uses. Verbena tea is the most common preparation: a few fresh or dried leaves steeped in hot water make a fragrant and soothing drink.

In cooking, lemon verbena leaves add fragrance to desserts, sorbets, marinades, and vinaigrettes. They pair well with fruit, fish, and poultry. A few leaves placed in a jar of sugar will infuse it with their lemony aroma in just a few days.

To discover the effects of verbena on the body and understand why this plant is so highly valued beyond its fragrance, a dedicated article will provide you with all the necessary information. You can also explore why verbena is so beneficial for both body and mind.

To prepare a homemade infusion from your fresh or dried leaves, our guide on how to make verbena herbal tea explains all the steps, from proportions to infusion time.

Verbena and other plants: beneficial combinations in the garden

Planting and caring for verbena can be part of a community garden. This plant integrates well alongside other aromatic plants such as sage, rosemary, lavender, or thyme, which share its preference for sun and well-drained soil.

It attracts bees and butterflies when it blooms, making it a valuable asset for garden biodiversity. Planted near vegetables, its strong fragrance can help repel certain pests.

If you are hesitating between verbena and other plants for your evening herbal tea, our verbena or linden will help you choose according to your needs and tastes.

Frequently asked questions about verbena planting and care

What is the best time for planting and caring for verbena?

The best time for planting and caring for lemon verbena is spring, between April and June depending on the region. It is essential to wait until all risk of frost has passed, as lemon verbena is not very hardy and cannot tolerate freezing temperatures. In mild climates, planting is possible as early as March. In colder areas, wait until May to avoid any risk of loss.

Does verbena need a lot of sun?

Yes, verbena is a plant that loves full sun. It needs at least six hours of direct sunlight a day to develop its full aromatic potential. In shade or partial shade, it will grow but produce less fragrance and remain less vigorous. Choose a south- or southwest-facing location, sheltered from cold winds, for best results.

Can verbena be grown in a pot on a balcony?

Absolutely. Growing and caring for verbena in a pot is perfectly feasible on a sunny balcony or terrace. Choose a container at least 30 cm in diameter with drainage holes. Use a mixture of potting soil and sand. Watering will be more frequent than when planted directly in the ground. The advantage of a pot is that you can easily bring the plant indoors during the winter to protect it from frost.

How to water verbena without damaging it?

Always water at the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the foliage. Verbena prefers slightly dry soil between waterings rather than constantly damp soil. In the ground, natural rainfall is often sufficient except during periods of drought. In pots, check the soil moisture by inserting a finger: water only if the top two centimeters are dry. In winter, reduce watering to a minimum.

Should verbena be pruned, and when?

Pruning is essential for planting and maintaining verbena. The main pruning is done in spring, when the first buds appear, by cutting back the previous year's stems by two-thirds. Throughout the season, regularly pinch the tips to encourage branching and create a denser plant. Without pruning, verbena will grow tall and gradually become bare at the base.

How to protect verbena in winter?

Winter protection depends on your region. In mild climates, a thick layer of mulch around the base of the plant is sufficient to protect the roots from frost. The stems may die back, but the plant often regrows from the base in spring. In colder regions, bring potted plants indoors to a frost-free location before the first frost. Drastically reduce watering throughout the winter dormancy period.

Can verbena grow in the shade?

Verbena can tolerate light shade, but it doesn't thrive there. In the shade, it grows more slowly, produces fewer leaves, and its fragrance is significantly less intense. For an aromatic plant used in herbal teas or cooking, full sun is definitely preferable. If your space is not very sunny, opt for plants better suited to shade.

How to propagate verbena yourself?

The simplest method is summer propagation by cuttings. Take semi-hardwood cuttings 10 to 15 cm long in summer, remove the lower leaves, and plant them in a moist mixture of sand and potting soil. Keep them out of direct sunlight and maintain a slightly moist substrate. Rooting occurs within a few weeks. For ornamental varieties, sowing seeds indoors between February and March is also an effective option.

What are the main problems encountered with verbena?

The most common problems when planting and caring for verbena are aphids on young shoots, powdery mildew in warm, humid weather, and root rot in heavy soil or with excessive watering. Spider mites can also appear in dry weather. Regularly checking the foliage and using appropriate cultivation practices will prevent most of these problems.

Can fresh verbena leaves be used directly?

Yes, lemon verbena leaves can be eaten fresh or dried. Fresh, they are ideal for infusions, desserts, and culinary preparations. Dried, they can be stored for several months in an airtight jar away from light. Harvesting is possible throughout the growing season, with the highest aromatic concentration just before flowering, generally in July and August.

What is the difference between lemon verbena and common verbena?

Lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora) is a highly fragrant shrub native to South America, used primarily in herbal teas and cooking. Common verbena (Verbena officinalis) is a more discreet European herbaceous plant with small purple flowers. They have different uses and growing requirements. Lemon verbena is the most commonly cultivated in French herb gardens.

How long does a lemon verbena plant live?

With proper care, lemon verbena is a perennial that can live for several years, even a decade in regions with favorable climates. In colder areas, without adequate winter protection, it may not survive the winter. With regular care, annual pruning, and protection from frost, it strengthens year after year and becomes increasingly productive in aromatic leaves.

Key takeaways

Planting and caring for verbena relies on simple principles: sun, drainage, moderate watering, and regular pruning. Follow these basics and you'll have a vigorous, bountiful, and long-lasting plant. Planting and caring for verbena is accessible to all gardening levels, from beginners to experienced gardeners.

To get started right away, begin by choosing your variety and preparing a sunny spot with well-drained soil. If you live in an apartment, a 30cm pot on a south-facing balcony is sufficient to begin growing this season.