The Long-Lasting Purple-Blue Plant That'll Fill Your Garden With Hummingbirds

Imagine your garden bursting with vivid purple-blue blooms that last for months while also attracting hummingbirds. This isn't a dream — it's what can happen when you plant Verbena lasiostachys, or western vervain, in your yard. This unassuming but remarkably resilient native perennial brings extended periods of color and life to gardens with minimal fuss. Unlike other types of finicky flowering plants, western vervain is an excellent choice for both experienced gardeners and those just starting their gardening journey.

Its adaptability to various soil conditions and its ability to withstand periods of drought make this flower an appealing addition, and it's hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 10. In addition to appealing to hummingbirds, the purplish-blue hue of the blossoms also attracts bees, butterflies, and other native pollinators, so this plant is a perfect choice when starting a pollinator garden. The spikes of blooms open gradually from the bottom to the top, a pattern that allows each spike to remain in flower continuously for weeks and feed hummingbirds and other wildlife all the while.

If attracting hummingbirds to your garden is a priority, western vervain deserves a spot in your plantings. Its slender flowers are perfectly shaped to accommodate the long beaks of hummingbirds, allowing them direct access to the nectar. Each spike of flowers contains numerous individual florets, providing a concentrated food source over the growing season. Hummingbirds are particularly drawn to bright colors, and the vibrant purplish-blue of western vervain stands out against green foliage to draw them in.

The plant's blooming period is remarkably long, typically spanning from spring through early fall. This extended bloom time is beneficial since it offers a reliable food supply for hummingbirds during all of their most active seasons, including migratory periods when consistent energy is important. Nectar is a primary source of food for hummingbirds, fueling their high metabolisms. Planting western vervain is a simple and effective way to contribute to local pollinator populations and enjoy the show they bring to a garden.

One of the most appealing benefits of western vervain is how low-maintenance it is. For a plant that delivers such an extended season of vibrant color and attracts beneficial wildlife, western vervain offers a lot for very little work. This perennial is drought-tolerant once established, making it a wonderful option for water-wise gardens. It prefers full sun, ideally receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Optimal flowering happens when the plant gets enough light exposure.

Western vervain adapts well to a variety of soil types, from sandy to clay, as long as there is good drainage. Standing water around the roots can lead to issues. It's one of those plants you don't have to fertilize, so it performs well in average garden soils, and it's rarely bothered by common garden pests or diseases. Growing to a height of 2 to 3 feet with a similar spread, it can create a lovely groundcover or fill in open spaces between other plantings.

In a garden setting, removing spent flowers can encourage western vervain to bloom continuously until the first frost. Be aware that western vervain is capable of self-seeding throughout your garden. This can be a desirable trait for some gardeners and a challenge for others, depending on how you prefer your garden to grow. While not considered invasive in its native range along the Pacific coast, it can spread like a weed in other areas.