Okay, long story short. Moved here in Aug. Since then had hurricane Rita come through and rough up our yard a bit. I have an area where one bush is (multicolored) red verbena. The previous owner placed tags, but some are missing or covered.

The other is a really pretty shade of purple and has a single flower growing at the end of each long branch. It has long branches from the base of the plant and can get 4ft tall with 2 leaves opposite each other every few inches. Sorry for lengthy description, no tag on this one

My question, how and when to prune back? I did prune what was laid over so we could mow/edge. I was wondering if this is a plant that needs to be cut back to a few inches above ground or much less and if so- when? It is kind of wild-looking but cutting what I have has improved it somewhat.
Thanks in advance,
wannabe

* * * *
God created you unique...
don't die a cheap copy!

I'm not sure, but I think you are talking about lantana, sometimes called shrub verbena. They aren't hardy here, but I have successfully overwintered them inside in the past. Cut them back just before growth begins in spring as much as you like, because they bloom on new wood. Also, if you have the time, you can pinch out the tips of developing branches to promote bushiness. Being in southeast Texas, you don't have the hardiness problem.

* * * *

Terry

May the force be with you