About

A round, bushy evergreen shrub with dark green glossy leaves and racemes of purple to blue flowers appearing from midsummer through to autumn.

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 typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

CultivationGrow in poor or moderately fertile, moist but well drained slightly alkaline soil in sun or partial shade. Shelter from cold winds
PruningMinimal pruning required. Remove misplaced or frost damaged branches in late spring
PropagationRoot semi-ripe cuttings with bottom heat in late summer or autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to downy mildews, fungal leaf spot, fungal rot, Phytophthora and sometimes honey fungus