American Blue Vervain
Verbena hastata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–60" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AZ, CA, CO and 41 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
American blue vervain is a tall native perennial that produces slender spikes of small purple-blue flowers from June through August. This upright wildflower can reach up to 5 feet tall and forms clumps that spread moderately over time.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Blue Vervain takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very tall and can appear weedy
- Informal wildflower appearance
- May self-seed aggressively
Wildlife value
Host plant for common buckeye butterfly.
The long blooming period provides nectar for bees, butterflies, and beetles throughout summer. Seeds are eaten by birds and the foliage supports butterfly larvae.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does American Blue Vervain fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.