About

A compact, clump-forming perennial with woolly, elliptic to ovate, greyish-green, basal leaves to 5cm long with toothed margins. In summer, flowering stems to 15cm tall bear dense spikes of purple-blue, tubular, two-lipped flowers with conspicuous bracts.

About the genus

Veronica can be annuals, perennials or sub-shrubs with paired leaves and small flowers usually in terminal or axillary racemes or spikes

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeSand, Loam, Chalk
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden

Care notes

CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained, acidic or neutral soil in full sun or partial shade
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceHigh Risk Host for Xylella fastidiosa. May be susceptible to downy mildews, fungal leaf spot, fungal rot, Phytophthora and sometimes honey fungus