Veronica spicata
spiked speedwell
A clump-forming perennial to 60cm tall with toothed, lance-shaped leaves up to 8cm long covered with silver hairs. Dense spikes of small, star-shaped, bright blue flowers are borne in summer
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Blue | Green | ||
Autumn | Green | |||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Plantaginaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Veronica can be annuals, perennials or sub-shrubs with paired leaves and small flowers usually in terminal or axillary racemes or spikes
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Needs full sun and grows best in a well-drained soil
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Low Maintenance
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Deadhead after flowering
Pests
May be susceptible to aphids
Diseases
May be susceptible to downy mildews, fungal leaf spot, fungal rot, Phytophthora and sometimes honey fungus
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