Vervain Hoary

Hoary Vervain is a tall, upright perennial native to Ontario. In summer, narrow spikes of small violet-purple flowers bloom gradually from the bottom upward, creating a long flowering period that can last 4–6 weeks. The blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, and the plant is also a larval host for the Common Buckeye butterfly. Later in the season, its seeds provide food for a variety of birds and small mammals.

Hoary Vervain grows best in full sun with dry to average, well-drained soil. It is tolerant of heat, drought, sandy or gravelly soils, and low-nutrient conditions. It may self-seed if spent flowers are left in place, but is generally well suited to average garden settings.