About Verbena simplex var. orcuttiana (L.M.Perry) N.O'Leary
Verbena simplex is a perennial wildflower that produces erect stems. Stems branch from the plant's base, and are either unbranched or only sparingly branched above ground, reaching a height of 24–76 cm (0.8–2.5 ft). Opposite pairs of narrow leaves grow spaced along the stems; the stems themselves are either hairless or covered in short fine hairs. Leaves measure 3–10 cm (1.25–4 in) long and less than 1 cm (0.5 in) across. They may be stalkless, or have a winged leaf stalk. Leaves are unlobed with fine teeth along their edges, and shaped narrowly lanceolate to oblanceolate or linear. A single flowering spike forms at the end of each stem; the inflorescence measures 4–25 cm (1.6–9.8 in) long and 5–8 cm (2.0–3.1 in) in diameter. The 5-lobed flowers are trumpet-shaped, 4–6 mm (0.2 in) long, and range in color from dark lavender or purple to white or bluish. Verbena simplex is native to the United States, where its range extends west to Nebraska, south to Texas and Florida, east to Massachusetts, and north to the Canadian border. In Canada, it is native to Ontario and Quebec. This species tolerates disturbance, and is commonly found in pastures and roadsides with sparse vegetation. Its flowers bloom from June through August, and are attractive to bees and skippers, and are probably attractive to butterflies as well.
