Supine Vervain: A Low-Growing Annual with Old-World Charm
Meet supine vervain (Verbena supina), a petite annual that’s been quietly making itself at home in American gardens. This unassuming little plant might not win any flashy flower contests, but it has a subtle charm that’s worth getting to know.
What Makes Supine Vervain Special?
Supine vervain is what botanists call a forb – essentially a soft-stemmed plant that lacks woody tissue. True to its supine name (which means lying face up), this annual has a distinctly prostrate, ground-hugging growth habit that makes it quite different from its taller vervain cousins.
The plant produces small clusters of tiny purple to blue flowers arranged in characteristic spikes. While each individual bloom might be modest, when they appear en masse, they create a lovely carpet of color that’s particularly appealing up close.
Where Does It Come From?
Originally from Europe and the Mediterranean region, supine vervain is considered a non-native species that has naturalized in parts of the United States. Currently, it’s documented as growing wild in Alabama, where it reproduces on its own without human intervention.
Should You Plant Supine Vervain?
As a non-native plant, supine vervain sits in that interesting middle ground – it’s not problematic enough to avoid, but it’s also not providing the specialized benefits that native plants offer to local ecosystems. Here are some considerations:
Reasons You Might Like It:
- Low-maintenance annual that thrives in poor soils
- Attractive ground cover for difficult spots
- Self-seeds readily for natural-looking drifts
- Attracts small pollinators like bees and butterflies
- Works well in rock gardens and naturalized areas
Things to Consider:
- As a non-native, it won’t support native wildlife as effectively as indigenous plants
- Can self-seed aggressively in ideal conditions
- Annual nature means it disappears each winter
Native Alternatives to Consider
If you’re drawn to supine vervain’s low-growing habit and small flowers, consider these native alternatives that provide similar aesthetic appeal while supporting local ecosystems:
- Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) for similar flower clusters
- Blue vervain (Verbena hastata) for a native vervain option
- Self-heal (Prunella vulgaris) for low-growing purple blooms
How to Grow Supine Vervain Successfully
If you decide to give supine vervain a try, you’ll find it’s refreshingly easy to grow. This plant seems to thrive on neglect!
Growing Conditions:
- Sunlight: Full sun for best flowering
- Soil: Well-drained, tolerates poor and sandy soils
- Water: Drought tolerant once established
- Hardiness: USDA zones 3-9
Planting and Care Tips:
Starting from seed: Sow seeds directly in the garden in spring after the last frost. The seeds are tiny, so barely cover them with soil and keep the area lightly moist until germination.
Maintenance: Once established, supine vervain needs minimal care. In fact, too much fertilizer or rich soil can lead to more foliage and fewer flowers. Let it do its thing!
Managing self-seeding: This plant can be a prolific self-seeder. If you want to prevent spreading, deadhead the flowers before they set seed. If you enjoy the naturalized look, let some flowers go to seed but keep an eye on where new plants pop up.
The Bottom Line
Supine vervain is one of those plants that won’t demand attention but will quietly fill in difficult spots where other plants might struggle. While native alternatives might be better choices for supporting local wildlife, this little vervain can have a place in gardens where its easy-going nature and subtle beauty are appreciated.
Whether you choose supine vervain or opt for native alternatives, the key is creating a garden that brings you joy while being mindful of your local ecosystem. Sometimes the most rewarding gardens are those that embrace both cultivated beauty and wild, natural charm.
