Upright branching stems produce candelabra flower spikes bearing tiny, violet-blue flowers throughout the summer months. Height 1.2m. Spread 45cm. Flowers June to October. Full sun/part shade, well-drained soil. Attracts bees and butterflies.
Verbena hastata ‘Blue Spires’ is a tall, upright perennial known for its striking violet-blue flower spikes that bloom from June to October. Its elegant candelabra-style stems add height and texture to borders and wildlife gardens, attracting bees and butterflies throughout the summer. Reaching up to 1.2m in height, this hardy, sun-loving plant thrives in well-drained soil and brings long-lasting colour and movement to mixed planting schemes.
PLANTING AND AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The best time to plant Verbena hastata ‘Blue Spires’ is in spring, allowing the roots to establish well before the flowering season. This ensures a strong plant that produces an abundance of blooms throughout the summer.
Autumn: Alternatively, Verbena can be planted in early autumn. This allows it to settle in before dormancy, encouraging vigorous growth and flowering the following year.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Verbena hastata ‘Blue Spires’ thrives in full sun but will also tolerate partial shade. Choose a location that receives plenty of light each day to promote strong stems and vibrant violet-blue flower spikes.
Soil: Well-drained soil is essential for Verbena. It does not tolerate standing water, so enrich the planting area with compost or grit to improve drainage and soil structure.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: When planting Verbena hastata ‘Blue Spires’, dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and equal in depth. This gives roots room to spread and establish securely.
Soil Preparation: Mix organic compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to improve fertility. Verbena hastata ‘Blue Spires’ performs best in moderately rich, free-draining soil.
Planting: Place the plant in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill gently and firm the soil to remove any air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and encourage root growth. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Verbena prefers evenly moist soil during active growth but can tolerate short dry spells once established. Water regularly during hot or prolonged dry periods, allowing the soil surface to dry slightly between watering.
Dormant Season: Reduce watering significantly once flowering ends. Verbena hastata ‘Blue Spires’ needs minimal moisture during its dormant phase—only water if the soil becomes very dry.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring to encourage strong root growth and vigorous flowering. Verbena responds well to nutrient-rich conditions at the start of the season.
Mid-Summer: A light feed midway through summer can promote a longer blooming period, helping Verbena hastata ‘Blue Spires’ maintain its beautiful violet-blue flowers into autumn.
Pruning
Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flower spikes from Verbena hastata ‘Blue Spires’ to encourage continual flowering and prevent self-seeding.
Autumn Pruning: After flowering has finished, cut Verbena hastata ‘Blue Spires’ back to ground level to tidy up the plant and prepare it for dormancy. This helps promote fresh, healthy growth the following year.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a 5 cm layer of organic mulch, such as compost or bark chips, around the base of your Verbena in spring. This conserves moisture, suppresses weeds, and enriches the soil.
Winter: Reapply mulch in late autumn to protect the root zone from cold temperatures and maintain consistent soil conditions.
Supporting the Plant
Staking: Verbena hastata ‘Blue Spires’ can grow up to 1.2m tall, so staking may be needed in exposed or windy areas. Use discreet supports to keep stems upright and prevent breakage during strong winds.
Final Tips
Verbena hastata ‘Blue Spires’ is a hardy, low-maintenance perennial that brings height, texture, and colour to any garden. By planting it in a sunny, well-drained spot and providing regular care, you’ll enjoy stunning violet-blue flower spikes from June to October. Perfect for attracting bees and butterflies, this Verbena adds natural beauty and biodiversity to your outdoor space season after season.
Select options 
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.