Veronica catenata (pink water speedwell) — Bushy

Overview

Veronica catenata is a bushy shrubs in the genus Veronica, part of the Plantaginaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Veronica catenata grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, gravel garden and wildlife gardens.

About

Veronica catenata, the pink water speedwell, is a species of flowering plant in the family Plantaginaceae. It is native to Canada, the United States, Europe, the Azores, and northern Africa. As its common name implies, it prefers growing in or near marshes, rivers, lakes and ponds. In the garden it prefers full sun and partial shade and most soil types. In UK gardens it is hardy through an average UK winter (RHS H4). Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, gravel garden and wildlife gardens. It tolerates alkaline and neutral soils, moist but well-drained, well-drained conditions and east-facing, north-facing, south-facing and west-facing aspects.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Veronica catenata

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Veronica

Sunlight: Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect: East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness: H4

Plant details

Veronica catenata size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Shrubs
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Evergreen
Suggested uses: City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Veronica catenata

Propagation: Propagate by seed or by semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistance: May be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistance: High Risk Host for Xylella fastidiosa. May be susceptible to downy mildews, fungal leaf spot, fungal rot, Phytophthora and sometimes honey fungus

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Veronica catenata?

Veronica catenata prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Veronica catenata need?

Veronica catenata is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.