About
A bushy evergreen shrub to around 1.4m high, with an upright habit and narrow, glossy mid-green leaves. Slender spikes of deep blue flowers are produced in mid summer, and sometimes again 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, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy, Spreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 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 light shade with shelter from cold, drying winds. May need winter protection in cold winters
PruningMinimal pruning required, see pruning group 9
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