Species tolerates moderate inundation of 0-8 inches of water as found in wet
prairies, stream banks, and marshes.
Wildlife Value
Seeds are eaten by wildlife. Attracts butterflies. Small mammals eat shoots.
Application/Zone
Used in upper shoreline zones, for streambank stabilization, and in vegetated
swales.
Availability, Establishment, and Maintenance
Seed is widely available from commercial vendors.
Propagation is easy by seed. Seed may need cold, moist stratification at
33-38o F for 30-90 days. Alternatively, some have found best germination of seed
when stored dry at 40o F then shifted to 70o F with light. Sow on the surface of
the soil because seeds require light to germinate.
Division works well in the spring. Cuttings work well in the summer.
This is a good pioneer species.
Blue Vervain Verbena hastata
Mature Height
Up to 5 feet
Plant Type
Perennial herb
Indicator Status
Facultative Wet (+)
pH
6-7
Nutrient Load Tolerance
Moderate to high
Salt Tolerance
Moderate to high
Siltation Tolerance
Moderate to high
Flowering Color and Time
Purple/Blue
July to September