Brazilian vervain, also known as Verbena incompta, is indeed a perennial herb. Perennials are plants that live for more than two years, unlike annuals that complete their life cycle within one year. In the case of Brazilian vervain, it is a clump forming perennial, meaning that it grows in tight clusters or groups.
One characteristic of Brazilian vervain that distinguishes it as a perennial is its ability to regrow from the same root system year after year. This allows the plant to survive through different seasons and continue to grow in subsequent years. The plant’s growth habit is also indicative of its perennial nature, as it rapidly grows upwards, reaching heights of 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters).
The stems of Brazilian vervain are rough and square, providing structural support to the plant. This feature helps the plant remain upright and withstand external pressures such as wind or heavy rainfall. The attachment of the upright branches to the main stem is opposite, a common characteristic in many perennial plants.
Being a perennial herb, Brazilian vervain has the advantage of coming back year after year, without the need for replanting. This can be particularly beneficial in landscaping and gardening, as it reduces the effort and cost associated with replacing plants annually. Additionally, the clump forming nature of Brazilian vervain can create visually appealing clusters of plants, adding aesthetic value to gardens or landscapes.
In my personal experience, I have found Brazilian vervain to be a reliable and low-maintenance perennial. Once established, it requires minimal care and can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. This versatility makes it a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers.
To summarize, Brazilian vervain is a perennial herb that grows in clumps and can reach heights of 3-6 feet. Its ability to regrow from the same root system and its rough, square stems are indicative of its perennial nature. The opposite attachment of branches to the main stem further reinforces its classification as a perennial. Brazilian vervain’s perennial characteristics make it an attractive and low-maintenance option for gardens and landscapes.
