About
This compact, bushy, evergreen shrub with an upright habit to around 45cm high. Small, rounded, slightly cupped dark green leaves emerge bronze and become flushed with purple in winter. Slender spikes of pale violet blue flowers that fade to near white are produced from late spring into summer.
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, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy, Clump forming, Columnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationSuits a range of well-drained soils, but best grown in poor to moderately fertile, neutral to slightly alkaline soil, in sun or partial shade with shelter from cold, drying winds See for further information about RHS plant trials and awards
PruningMinimal pruning required, see pruning group 9
PropagationRoot semi-ripe cuttings with bottom heat in late summer or autumn. As this plant is protected by Plant Breeders' Rights, any propagation should be for personal rather than commercial use
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to downy mildews, fungal leaf spot, fungal rot, Phytophthora and sometimes honey fungus