Tapien verbena is a perennial plant, meaning it can survive for multiple years. However, it is important to note that tapien verbena is a tender perennial, which means it is not as hardy as other perennials and may not survive in colder climates. Tapien verbena is hardy to zone 8, which includes regions with milder winters. In zones 8-10, tapien verbena will remain evergreen, meaning it will keep its leaves year-round. However, in regions with colder winters, tapien verbena may not survive and is often grown as an annual instead.
One of the great qualities of tapien verbena is its ability to easily and quickly grow. It spreads through creeping stems that root into the soil or mulch, allowing it to form a wide (90 cm) mat of foliage. This spreading habit makes tapien verbena a great ground cover option in the garden. It can quickly fill in empty spaces and create a lush carpet of greenery.
In terms of care, tapien verbena is relatively low-maintenance. It is fairly drought-tolerant, meaning it can withstand periods of dryness without much water. This can be particularly beneficial in regions with hot and dry summers. However, like most plants, tapien verbena will perform best with regular watering, especially during prolonged dry spells.
Another advantage of tapien verbena is its resistance to powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that affects many plants, causing a white powdery coating on the leaves. However, tapien verbena has shown good resistance to this disease, making it a reliable choice for gardeners who want a plant that can fend off common fungal issues.
While tapien verbena is a perennial, it is important to consider your specific climate before deciding to grow it. If you live in zones 8-10, where winter temperatures are milder, tapien verbena can be a reliable and long-lasting addition to your garden. However, if you live in colder regions, it may be best to treat tapien verbena as an annual or consider overwintering it indoors to ensure its survival.
Tapien verbena is a tender perennial that is hardy to zone 8. It can be grown as an evergreen perennial in zones 8-10, but in colder climates, it is often treated as an annual. Tapien verbena is easy to grow, fast-spreading, drought-tolerant, and resistant to powdery mildew. Consider your climate and gardening goals when deciding whether to include tapien verbena in your garden.
