Empress Sun White Verbena

Empress Sun White Verbena is a herbaceous perennial celebrated for its crisp white flowers that bloom continuously from spring to fall. This variety features a trailing, mounding growth habit that spreads outward, creating a luminous display of clean, bright color. Reaching up to 1 foot in height and 1.5 feet in width, it’s a standout choice for containers, hanging baskets, and sunny landscape beds.

• Herbaceous perennial
• Fast growth rate with trailing, spreading form
• Clusters of pure white blooms
• Attracts pollinators
• Excellent for containers, beds, and mass plantings

Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, Empress Sun White Verbena is perfect for the hottest zones in Texas. Hardy in USDA zones 7 through 11, it’s both heat- and drought-tolerant once established. Maintaining this plant's beauty is easy - just trim back withered flowers to promote fresh, continuous blooming throughout the season.

Empress Sun White Verbena is a long-blooming, low-maintenance perennial that provides bright, crisp color with minimal care when a few key practices are followed:

• Watering: Water consistently during the first growing season to establish deep, healthy roots. Once established, Empress Sun White Verbena is moderately drought-tolerant but thrives with occasional deep watering during extended dry periods. Avoid waterlogged soil, which can lead to root decline. Deep, infrequent watering encourages strong roots and prolonged flowering.
• Pruning: Regular deadheading of spent blooms throughout the growing season maintains appearance and encourages continuous flowering. Light trimming in late winter or early spring helps control size and promotes fuller growth. Avoid heavy pruning in late fall, as tender new shoots may be frost-sensitive.
• Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring if the soil is poor. Over-fertilization can produce soft, leggy growth at the expense of flower production. In well-draining soils, additional feeding is typically unnecessary.
• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of coarse mulch or gravel around the base to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and improve airflow. Keep mulch slightly away from the crown to prevent rot and maintain healthy roots.
• Winter Care: Empress Sun White Verbena is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. In colder zones or during unusual freezes, a light mulch around the base helps protect roots. Container-grown plants may require temporary shelter during frost events.

• Leggy Growth: Excessive shade or over-fertilization can cause stretched, sparse growth. Pinch back stems in early spring to encourage fuller branching.
• Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly drained soil can damage roots. Ensure good drainage and avoid prolonged wet conditions.
• Fungal Leaf Spots: Brown or black spots may appear under humid or overcrowded conditions. Remove affected foliage and increase air circulation. Avoid overhead watering when possible.
• Pests: Generally pest-resistant, though occasional aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies may appear during hot, dry periods. Rinse leaves or treat with insecticidal soap if needed.
• Reduced Flowering: Stress from drought, inconsistent watering, or nutrient imbalance can reduce bloom density. Regular deadheading and consistent care encourage a long flowering season.