Hoary Vervain

Hoary Vervain
Verbena stricta

A hardy native prairie wildflower with upright stems and dense spikes of violet-purple flowers that bloom from early to mid-summer. The gray-green foliage is softly hairy, giving the plant its “hoary” appearance. Its tall flower spikes provide long-lasting color and are highly attractive to pollinators.

Hoary Vervain thrives in dry prairies, open meadows, and rocky soils, making it an excellent choice for drought-tolerant landscapes and prairie restorations. Its deep roots help stabilize soil while supporting diverse pollinator communities.

Growing Conditions

• Height: 2–4 ft
• Spread: Clumping
• Light: Full sun
• Soil: Dry to medium, well-drained soils; tolerates sandy, rocky, and clay soils
• Hardiness: Zone 4–8
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Highly drought tolerant once established
• Deer resistant

Ideal for prairie restorations, dry meadows, pollinator gardens, and naturalized landscapes where tough, drought-adapted species are needed.

Ecological Value

• Excellent nectar source for bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects
• Supports a wide diversity of pollinators
• Deep roots improve soil health and stability
• Adds vertical interest and long-lasting bloom to prairie ecosystems

Larval Host Plant For
Caterpillars of several native moth species.

Companion Species

• Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium)
• Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii)
• Prairie Junegrass (Koeleria macrantha)
• Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
• Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa)
• Rocky Mountain Fescue (Festuca saximontana)

Planting to Protect
Restoring to Thrive
Origin Native Plants

3.5 inch Pots