Rose Verbena (Rose Vervain)

Glandularia canadensis (formerly Verbena canadensis)


Julianna Schroeder

Verbenaceae (vervains)


A low, spreading herbaceous perennial with hairy stems that take root where they touch the ground. Flowers in rounded or flat-topped, terminal clusters, tubular, with 5 lobes. Makes spectacular displays on dry, rocky hillsides. Color varies from true pink to magenta to rose-purple, probably depending on soil. Blooms March-November. Leaves variable, opposite, on petioles, more or less 3-divided with toothed lobes, to 3 inches long.


Height: usually to about 1 foot.

Habitat and conservation


image of Rose Verbena Rose Vervain distribution map
Distribution in Missouri

Statewide, but especially in central and southern Missouri.


Long considered a member of the genus Verbena, this species is currently placed into the genus Glandularia based on a number of factors, including chromosome data that were unavailable to botanists in previous decades. Because it was so long known as "Verbena canadensis," it still appears under that name in many guidebooks and manuals.

Human connections


Ecosystem connections
