Verbena, also known as vervain or with its scientific name Verbena officinalis, is a genus in the family Verbenaceae. It contains about 150 species of annual and perennial herbaceous or semi-woody flowering plants.

Verbena has long been associated with divine and other supernatural forces. It was called "tears of Isis" in ancient Egypt, and later called "Hera's tears". The generic name (Verbena officinalis) is the Latin term for a plant sacred to the ancient Romans.

Direct uses and industrial applications

Verbena has always been implemented as an herbal medicine at home. When its leaves are dried, they can be used on their own or mixed with other herbs such as mint or sage to make herbal tea, infused with fruits for ice cream, as well as aromatics for a main dish like chicken or pork. In South America it is usually added to yerba mate too.

When it comes to industries, and due to its famous properties, verbena can also be seen in essential oils. It is possible to find these oils by their own, mainly employed in homeopathic medicine, along with beauty products like body creams, soaps, shampoo & hair conditioner, and so forth.

Market overview and production

Throughout the world there are various types of verbena such as: Brazilian Verbena (Verbena Brasiliensis), Blue Vervain (Verbena Hastata) in Canada and US, Verbena officinalis in Southwestern Europe, and Mint Vervain (Verbena Menthifolia) in Southern US and México.

The Argentine verbena is a species belonging to the Verbenaceae family. Its scientific name is Verbena bonariensis and can be found in almost the entire warm climate area of South America, from Colombia to Argentina.

This shrub has a long flowering period plus a hardy nature. Seeds can be sown directly in the ground in spring or in late winter indoors. To get the best results, the verbena needs to be sown in full sun or in partial shade, with a well-drained soil.

Frequently asked questions

What is verbena? Verbena is an herbaceous plant mainly used as natural medicine and raw material of beauty products.

Is Verbena annual or perennial? The vast majority of verbenas are annual, which means that they are constant bloomers.

What does verbena smell like? It is a very aromatic plant, with citric scent related to lemon but more grassy as citronella.

How is Verbena called in different languages? Verbena in Spanish, Verbena or Vervain in English, Eisenkraut in German and Verveine in French.

What is verbena used for? Verbena is mostly used for herbal tea or essential oils.

How long does it take for verbena to grow? As it is an annual shrub, its flourish season is from spring to summer. They can take a long time to flower, with some requiring as many as 90 days.

Is lemongrass the same as verbena? Lemon verbena, also called as Aloysia triphylla, is a popular member of the verbena family. Verbena is the general name to mention the same “plant family”.

How long can verbena leaves be stored? They can be stored up to a year.

Where can I purchase dry verbena leaves in bulk? You can purchase at Directoro direct from producers.

Related products and ideas

Make a herbal tea at home. You need: dried verbena leaves, dried lemon verbena leaves, dried mint leaves, water and a pinch of honey.

Simply fill a small saucepan with water and add 2-3 leaves of each herb. Heat to boiling, then reduce and simmer for five minutes. Allow to cool slightly before drinking. Add honey on your cup and enjoy!