Verbenas

Verbenas are plants in the genus Verbena, family Verbenaceae. The genus includes many species and cultivars, such as Verbena officinalis (common vervain), Verbena bonariensis, and Verbena hybrida, which are widely used as ornamental bedding plants. Verbenas produce small flowers in dense clusters, often purple, pink, red, or white, attractive to pollinators. Most varieties prefer full sun and well-drained soil. In temperate regions they are usually grown as annuals; in warm climates some are perennials. They require regular watering and deadheading to sustain flowering and are susceptible to powdery mildew, aphids, and thrips. Propagation is commonly by stem cuttings or seeds for certain cultivars. Garden forms include trailing, mounding, and compact varieties for borders, containers, and bedding schemes.

The name verbena derives from Latin verbena, meaning sacred offering or grove, reflecting ancient associations. Verbenas also denote traditional public festivals in Spain, Portugal, and parts of Latin America. Verbenas are typically summer evening events with music, dancing, food stalls, games, casetas, and sometimes fireworks, held to celebrate a saint's feast day or local occasion. They are organized by municipalities, associations, or volunteers and function as social spaces for community life.