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Annual Biennial

Veronica hederifolia

ivy-leaved speedwell

An annual wildflower, with spreading or slightly ascending stems branching at the base. Leaves are broad, 3-5 lobed and hairy. Tiny, stemless, violet-blue flowers are produced from spring to late summer

Other common names
ivy-leaved chickweed
mother of wheat
see moresmall henbit
winterweed
wireweed
Synonyms
Veronica buxbaumii F.W. Schmidt
Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cm
Time to ultimate height
1 year
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Blue Purple Green
Summer Blue Purple Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Plantaginaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Trailing
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

How to grow

Cultivation

Thrives in a range of soils and situations, commonly found in disturbed soil in field margins and waste land. Can be seen as a weed in some situations, but makes a good addition to a species-rich lawn or wildflower area. See speedwell for more information

Propagation

Propagate by seed; plants self-seed prolifically

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Wildlife gardens
Pruning

No pruning required. Roots are shallow, plants are easily removed by hand pulling

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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