Companion Plants for Verbena Bonariensis

If you're looking for a show-stopping plant that will add height and colour to your garden, look no further than verbena bonariensis. This tall, lanky plant with its striking purple flowers is a favourite of gardeners everywhere. But what are the best companion plants to pair with this beautiful specimen? In this article, we'll explore some of the top options that will complement your verbena bonariensis and create a stunning garden display.

Sun Loving Companions

Salvia

One great option for a companion plant to verbena bonariensis is Salvia. These sun-loving plants come in a variety of colours, including bright reds and blues, which will contrast beautifully with the purple blooms of the verbena. They also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them a valuable addition to any garden.

Echinacea

Another excellent choice for a companion plant is Echinacea, or coneflower. These hardy perennials have daisy-like blooms in shades of pink, white, and purple that complement the verbena perfectly. They also have a long blooming season, meaning they'll provide colour and interest in your garden for months on end.

Shade Loving Companions

Hosta

If you're looking for a companion plant for verbena bonariensis that can handle some shade, Hosta is an excellent option. These low-growing plants have large, attractive leaves in shades of green and blue that provide a nice contrast to the verbena's blooms. They also do well in moist soil, making them a great choice for those tricky shady areas of your garden.

Astilbe

Another shade-loving companion plant to consider is Astilbe. These plants have feathery plumes of pink, red, or white flowers that will complement the tall, spiky blooms of the verbena perfectly. They also prefer moist soil, so they'll thrive in those shady spots where other plants might struggle.

Companions with Interesting Foliage

Canna Lilies

Canna lilies are a great option if you're looking for a companion plant with interesting foliage. These plants have large, banana-like leaves in shades of green and bronze that provide a nice contrast to the verbena's blooms. They also come in a variety of colours, including bright oranges and reds, which will add some visual interest to your garden.

Coleus

Another plant with interesting foliage to consider is Coleus. These colourful plants have leaves in shades of red, pink, purple, and green that will provide a striking backdrop to the verbena's blooms. They're also low-maintenance and easy to grow, making them a great option for novice gardeners.

Companions for Containers

Lantana

If you're growing your verbena bonariensis in a container, consider pairing it with Lantana. These sun-loving plants have clusters of small, brightly coloured flowers that will complement the verbena's blooms. They're also drought-tolerant, making them a good option if you tend to forget to water your plants.

Petunias

Another excellent choice for a container companion is Petunias. These annuals come in a variety of colours, including purple and pink, which will complement the verbena nicely. They're also easy to grow and low-maintenance, making them a great option for busy gardeners.

Companions for Cut Flowers

Coreopsis

If you're looking for a companion plant that will provide cut flowers for your home, Coreopsis is an excellent choice. These sun-loving plants have yellow or orange blooms that will pair nicely with the purple verbena flowers. They also have a long blooming season, so you'll be able to enjoy fresh-cut flowers for weeks on end.

Phlox

Another great option for cut flowers is Phlox. These plants come in a variety of colours, including pink, white, and purple, which will complement the verbena's blooms. They also have a lovely fragrance, making them a great addition to any bouquet.


In there are many different companion plants that will pair nicely with verbena bonariensis. Whether you're looking for sun-loving or shade-loving options, plants with interesting foliage or those that provide cut flowers, there's a perfect companion out there for your verbena. By choosing the right plants to pair with your verbena bonariensis, you can create a stunning garden display that will be the envy of all your neighbours.

FAQs:

1. Is verbena bonariensis a good plant for beginners?

Absolutely! Verbena bonariensis is a relatively low-maintenance plant that's easy to grow, making it a great option for novice gardeners.

2. Do I need to deadhead my verbena bonariensis?

While you don't need to deadhead verbena bonariensis, doing so will encourage more blooms and keep the plant looking tidy.

3. How tall does verbena bonariensis grow?

Verbena bonariensis can grow up to 6 feet tall, making it an excellent option for adding height to your garden display.

4. Can verbena bonariensis tolerate drought?

Yes, verbena bonariensis is relatively drought-tolerant and can handle periods of dry weather.

5. What's the best time of year to plant verbena bonariensis?

The best time to plant verbena bonariensis is in the spring, after the last frost has passed. This will give the plants plenty of time to establish themselves before the hot summer months arrive.