About
An evergreen shrub with an upright bushy habit, young leaves are maroon as they open and turn to dark green with age, then turn a deep purple over the winter months. The deep lilac flower racemes are held aloft on purple stems during early 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, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing, North-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationPrefers moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part-shade. Plant in spring for best establishment before winter, will require some winter protection in cold areas
PruningPruning group 9, winter damage may need removing after a harsh winter
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer for home use
Pest resistanceMaybe susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to downy mildews, fungal leaf spot, fungal rot, Phytophthora and sometimes honey fungus