Hoary Vervain
Verbena stricta
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CO and 33 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Hoary vervain is a sturdy native perennial with tall spikes of small purple flowers that bloom from June through September. This drought-tolerant plant forms upright clumps and provides reliable color in sunny, dry locations where other plants struggle.
In an HOA neighborhood
Hoary 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.
- Tall growth habit can appear wild or weedy
- Goes completely dormant in winter leaving bare stems
- May self-seed and spread beyond intended areas
Wildlife value
The long blooming period makes this an excellent nectar source for bees and butterflies throughout summer and early fall.
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 Hoary Vervain fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.