Verbena bonariensis 'Little One' PP18,124 (Dwarf Purple Top) - A dwarf form of Verbena bonariensis that grows to only 18 to 24 inches tall. Like the larger form this plant has a long bloom period with pinkish-purple buds that open to pink flowers that later fade nearly to white atop thin squarish stems from spring through fall.
Plant in full sun (best) or in partial shade. Tolerates heat and dry conditions and is perennial in zones 7 to 10; useful as a long blooming annual in colder climates. A nice sized plant for the front to middle planting of a border or wildflower meadow where it is sure to attract butterflies.
This dwarf selection was made by Andy Maycen at Tom Piergrossi Landscape and Nursery growing grounds in Vista, California. They noted that in the first year this plant grew to 18 inches in height and in the subsequent year reached only 2 feet tall. It received US Plant Patent PP18,124 in October 2007. We had a chance to trial this plant in our nursery conditions in the spring of 2005 and remained much smaller than our regular crops of Verbena bonariensis, though the flowers are also slightly smaller as well. In side by side blocks, 'Little One' also appears to be a little more resistant to the powdery mildew that plagues the larger form. For more information about the species see our listing for cultivar Verbena bonariensis. It has been indicated to us that this plant is possibly sterile as no seedlings have been noted, though further testing will be required before this claim can be made. This is a benefit for those who don't want a plant to seed about the garden but unfortunately it means that this typically short-lived perennial will need to be replanted occasionally. We grew this plant in 2007.
The information about Verbena bonariensis 'Little One' PP18,124 that is displayed on this web page is based on research conducted in our nursery's horticultural library and from reliable online resources. We will also include observations made about this plant as it grows in our nursery gardens and other gardens that we have visited, as well how the crops have performed in containers in our nursery field. We also incorporate comments that we receive from others and welcome hearing from anyone with additional information, particularly if they share cultural information that aids others growing this plant.
Please note that after 46 years in business, San Marcos Growers will be discontinuing nursery operations by the end of 2025 and the property will be developed for affordable housing.
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