Verbena facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Verbena |
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| Purpletop Vervain, Verbena bonariensis | |
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Verbena is a group of flowering plants. They belong to the plant family called Verbenaceae. You might know them as vervain or verbena. Some types of verbena can grow wild and are sometimes seen as weeds. It's important not to mix them up with a similar plant called Lantana, which is sometimes called shrub verbena.
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About Verbena Plants
Verbena plants are known for their pretty flowers. These flowers often grow in clusters. They can be many different colors, like purple, pink, red, or white. Many people like to grow verbenas in their gardens. They are popular because they bloom for a long time.
Where Do Verbenas Grow?
Most verbena plants come from the Americas and Asia. They can be found in many different places. Some grow in warm, sunny areas. Others can handle cooler weather. They are quite adaptable plants. This means they can grow in various conditions.
How Verbenas Look
Verbena plants can be different sizes. Some are small and grow close to the ground. Others can grow taller, like a small bush. Their leaves can also look different. Some have smooth edges, while others are more jagged. The flowers usually have five petals. They often grow in spikes or round clusters. This makes them very noticeable in a garden.
Different Kinds of Verbena
There are many different types of verbena. Each type has its own special features.
- Common Vervain (Verbena officinalis) is a well-known type. It has been used for a long time in traditional practices.
- Purpletop Vervain (Verbena bonariensis) is tall and has purple flowers. It's often used in gardens to add height.
- Hoary Vervain (Verbena stricta) has fuzzy leaves. It grows well in dry, open areas.
- Lemon Verbena (Aloysia citrodora) is a close relative. It's famous for its strong lemon scent. People use its leaves to make tea or add flavor to food.
How People Use Verbenas
Verbenas are mostly grown for their beauty. They are popular ornamental plants. This means people grow them to make their gardens look nice. They are often used in flower beds, hanging baskets, and pots. Their bright colors attract butterflies and other helpful insects.
Some types of verbena have also been used in traditional ways. For example, common vervain was sometimes used in old remedies. Lemon verbena is used in cooking and for its pleasant smell. It can be found in teas, perfumes, and even some desserts.
Images for kids
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Common vervain (V. officinalis) from Deutschlands Flora in Abbildungen by Johann Georg Sturm and Jacob Sturm, 1796
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[Purpletop Vervain]] (V. bonariensis) as an ornamental plant
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Large-bracted Vervain (V. bracteata)
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Verbena rigida
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Verbena speciosa
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Hoary Vervain (V. stricta)
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Lemon Verbena, Aloysia citrodora (formerly in Lippia), a close relative of true Verbenas
See also
In Spanish: Verbena (género) para niños
