About

An evergreen, bushy shrub to 2m tall with erect to lax and spreading branches bearing elliptic to lance-shaped leaves up to 10cm long. Tiny white to pale purple flowers densely-clustered on lateral spikes up to 5cm long may be borne from summer into early winter in mild climates.

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, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

CultivationGrow in a well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade
PruningPruning group 9
PropagationPropagate by seed or by semi-hardwood cuttings
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