Verbena hastata ‘Pink Spires’
£4.95
Verbena hastata ‘Pink Spires’
An elegant, upright perennial with slender spires of soft pink flowers that bring height without heaviness.
From midsummer into early autumn, tall branching stems carry numerous narrow spikes of delicate pink flowers above fresh green foliage. The flowers open gradually along the spikes, creating a long season of colour and a beautifully airy effect. They are also highly attractive to bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects.
Verbena hastata thrives in full sun in moisture-retentive but well-drained soil and is particularly happy where the ground does not become excessively dry. It forms an upright clump rather than a dense mass, making it excellent for weaving amongst grasses and other perennials. Despite its height, its slender stems allow you to see through it to neighbouring plants.
Specifications
Height: Approx. 90–120cm
Spread: Approx. 40–50cm
Flowering: July–September
Position: Full sun
Soil: Moisture-retentive, well-drained soil
Habit: Upright, clump-forming perennial
Hardiness: Hardy perennial
Wildlife: Excellent for bees, butterflies and other pollinators
Maintenance: Cut back after flowering or leave seed heads standing for autumn interest
🌿 Note for Isle of Wight planting
A good choice for sunny Island gardens, but unlike some of our more drought-tolerant Verbena, Verbena hastata appreciates soil that retains some moisture. Adding organic matter before planting and mulching around the base will help it establish well in the Island’s lighter, drier soils.
Ideal Companion Plants from The Green Standard Range
Panicum ‘Straight Cloud’ – its upright grassy form echoes the vertical Verbena while adding movement and autumn texture.
Achillea ‘The Pearl’ – clusters of small white flowers provide a soft contrast to the narrow pink spires.
Gaura ‘The Bride’ – airy white flowers create a wonderfully loose, naturalistic combination.
Sanguisorba ‘Tanna’ – dark red flower heads add contrast lower down while continuing the meadow-style feel.
Verbena ‘Bampton’ – purple foliage and tiny pink flowers link beautifully with the pink spires while adding a finer texture.
🌟 The Green Standard Tip
Use Verbena hastata towards the middle or back of a border, but don't hide it away. Its narrow, transparent habit makes it particularly effective repeated in small groups through grasses and softer perennials, creating height and rhythm without making the planting feel crowded.