Moss Verbena Glandularia 'Lawrence Johnston'
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ABOUT
Glandularia 'Lawrence Johnston', also known as moss verbena, is characterized by its vibrant and colorful floral display. The plant features clusters of small, tubular flowers that are commonly found in a range of purple, pink, or occasionally white hues. These flowers are grouped atop slender, branching stems that give the plant a delicate and airy appearance. Moss verbena's foliage is made up of dark green, lance-shaped leaves that are slightly rough to the touch and may sometimes show a quilted texture. The overall effect of the plant is a sprawling, cascading habit that adds a touch of softness to any setting where it is grown. It's an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add long-lasting color to their outdoor landscapes.
About this plant
Names
Synonyms
Moss Verbena, Garden Verbena, South American Mock Vervain, Trailing Verbena, Perennial Verbena.
Common names
Verbena 'Lawrence Johnston', Verbena peruviana 'Lawrence Johnston'.
Toxicity
To humans
Glandularia 'Lawrence Johnston', commonly known as verbena, is not generally considered toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, individual allergic reactions or sensitivities could potentially occur. If ingested in large quantities, there could theoretically be gastrointestinal upset or other digestive issues.
To pets
Verbena, the common name for Glandularia 'Lawrence Johnston', is also not generally regarded as a toxic plant to pets. While it's not typical for pets to experience severe poisoning from consuming verbena, mild gastrointestinal upset is possible if ingested in significant amounts. Always monitor your pets around plants, and consult a veterinarian if you observe unusual symptoms after ingestion.
Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Americas
Benefits
General Benefits
- Ornamental Value: Glandularia, also known as Moss Verbena, produces striking flowers that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Drought Tolerance: It is known to be relatively drought-resistant, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens in arid regions.
- Attracts Pollinators: Moss Verbena attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, supporting biodiversity.
- Ground Cover: Its growth habit makes it ideal for ground cover, helping to suppress weeds and reduce soil erosion.
- Low Maintenance: It does not require a lot of care once established, which is convenient for gardeners seeking low-maintenance plants.
- Adaptability: Moss Verbena can thrive in a variety of soil types, as long as they are well-draining.
- Fast Growth: The plant grows quickly, which can be advantageous for gardeners looking to achieve a full look in a short amount of time.
- Color Variety: It comes in various colors, allowing for versatile design options in garden planning.
Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses
- Glandularia 'Lawrence Johnston', or verbena, can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, providing a range of colors depending on the mordant used.
- The plant can be a source of food for caterpillars of certain butterfly species, thus promoting biodiversity in gardens.
- Dried verbena leaves can be utilized in potpourris to impart a pleasant fragrance to rooms and closets.
- Verbena can be planted as a companion plant in vegetable gardens to help deter certain pests and insects.
- The plant can be used in landscaping as a groundcover to control soil erosion on slopes and banks.
- Pressed verbena flowers can be used in botanical art and crafts for creating natural designs and decorations.
- Verbena can be incorporated into floral arrangements as a filler, adding texture and a splash of color.
- The essential oil derived from verbena may be used in making natural perfumes and scents with a fresh, lemony fragrance.
- The stems and foliage of verbena can be used as mulch to enrich the soil and retain moisture.
- In eco-friendly weddings or events, verbena flowers can serve as a biodegradable confetti alternative.
Interesting Facts
Feng Shui
The Glandularia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Glandularia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism
- Transformation: The Glandularia, also known as Verbena, has been historically associated with transformation and change because of its metamorphosis from simple leaves to vibrant blooms.
- Healing: Verbena's uses in traditional medicine have led to it symbolizing healing and the restoration of health.
- Protection: Folklore often references Verbena in warding off evil and harm, attributing protective qualities to the plant.
- Creativity: As the Verbena brings color and vibrance to gardens, it is sometimes seen as an inspiration for creativity and the muse for artists.
- Harmony: With its ability to attract pollinators and its presence in diverse ecosystems, Verbena can symbolize balance and harmony in nature.
Water
The plant commonly known as Verbena requires moderate watering but it is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained and not waterlogged. Typically, water your Verbena when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, which might be approximately once every week, depending on the climate conditions. During the growing season in spring and summer, Verbena may need more frequent watering, while in the cooler months, watering can be reduced. Provide the plant with about one to two gallons of water each time you water, ensuring you wet the soil thoroughly. It's vital to avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases, so water at the base of the plant.
Light
Verbena thrives in full sun and should be planted in a location where it can get at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. This plant loves the heat and will bloom more vigorously with more light. An ideal spot is a south-facing garden or a windowsill that receives ample sunshine throughout the day. However, in extremely hot climates, a bit of afternoon shade can help protect the plant from scorching.
Temperature
Verbena prefers warmer temperatures and does best when the environment ranges between 60°F and 80°F. It can tolerate a minimum temperature down to about 55°F, but anything below can be detrimental to the plant's health. Moreover, it struggles to survive in temperatures exceeding 85°F for prolonged periods. It's crucial to keep Verbena away from frost and freezing conditions, as they are not frost-tolerant.
Pruning
Pruning Verbena is essential to promote bushier growth and encourage more blooms. Deadheading, or the removal of spent flowers, should be done regularly throughout the blooming season to maintain the plant's appearance and stimulate new flowers. Once a year, typically in early spring, trim back about one-fourth of the plant's size to rejuvenate and shape it. The best time for major pruning is after the last frost when the plant starts to show new growth.
Cleaning
As needed
Soil
Moss Verbena (Glandularia 'Lawrence Johnston') thrives in a well-draining soil mix with a pH of 6.0 to 8.0. A good recipe would be to combine two parts peat moss or coco coir, one part compost, and one part perlite or coarse sand. This composition ensures adequate drainage and nutrient retention.
Repotting
Moss Verbena should be repotted every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current container. Repotting is typically done in the spring or early summer, providing a fresh soil mix to support the plant’s vigorous growth.
Humidity & Misting
Moss Verbena prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable and can tolerate the drier air found in most home environments. Providing good air circulation around the plant helps to maintain optimal humidity conditions.
Suitable locations
Indoor
Ensure bright light and good airflow for indoor Moss Verbena.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, protect from extreme cold, and ensure soil drainage.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycle
The Glandularia 'Lawrence Johnston', commonly known as Johnson's Glandularia, begins its life cycle as a seed which, when sown and exposed to appropriate conditions, germinates and sprouts into a seedling. As the plant matures, it enters a vegetative stage, developing stems, leaves, and a root system. It then progresses to the flowering stage, where it produces clusters of vibrant flowers that attract pollinators and facilitate subsequent seed production. Following pollination, the plant sets seeds that are dispersed by various means such as wind or animal movement. After seed dispersal, the plant may enter a period of dormancy, especially in regions with unfavorable growing conditions. The life cycle completes when the plant eventually senesces and dies after producing seeds, although many individuals can live for several years, behaving as perennials in favorable climates.
Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Glandularia 'Lawrence Johnston', commonly known as Johnson's Verbena, can typically be propagated by cuttings. This method is especially popular because it allows for the clone of the parent plant, ensuring that the offspring bear the same desirable characteristics. For best results, cuttings should be taken in spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most vigorous. To propagate Johnson's Verbena using cuttings, select healthy, non-flowering shoots and cut a 3-4 inch (approximately 7.5-10 cm) piece just below a node. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix, and keep it moist until roots have established, which usually takes a few weeks. Once the cuttings have rooted and begun to show new growth, they can be transplanted to their final location.