Verbena is an intriguing and uncommon feminine given name with a rich history and meaning rooted in ancient cultures.
The name Verbena originates from the Latin word 'verbena', which refers to a genus of flowering plants known as verbena. These plants are often used in herbal medicine and were revered by ancient civilizations for their healing properties. The name Verbena is believed to have been adopted from these plants, with early usage dating back to Roman times.
In Roman mythology, the goddess Hertha was said to have had a temple adorned with verbena plants, which became associated with her cult. It's possible that the name Verbena may have originated as a reference to this temple or its association with the goddess Hertha.
Verbena has also been associated with other deities and mythological figures throughout history. In Greek mythology, Verbena was one of the Danaides, the daughters of Danaus who were cursed to marry their cousins but refused to consummate their marriages. This story is recorded by Hyginus in his Fabulae, written during the 2nd century AD.
In more recent times, Verbena has appeared as a character in literature and art. In Jean Anouilh's play "Eurydice," which premiered in Paris in 1939, one of the characters is named Verbena. Additionally, English poet Algernon Swinburne wrote a collection of poems titled "Poems and Ballads" in the late 19th century that includes a piece called "Verbenas."
While Verbena may not be a commonly used name today, its unique origin and historical significance make it an appealing choice for parents looking for something distinctive and meaningful. Its association with healing plants and ancient deities gives Verbena a timeless quality that transcends cultural boundaries.
Statistics on the name Verbena show a varied trend over time in the United States. Between 1907 and 1938, there were periods of fluctuation with an average of around 6-7 births per year, reaching as high as 9 births in 1928 and 1938. After a gap of several decades, Verbena saw a resurgence with 5 births recorded in the year 2015. In total, there have been 98 babies named Verbena born in the United States since 1907.