About
A small evergreen shrub of open growth to 60cm in height, with glossy, toothed oval, mid-green leaves, often red-edged. Flowers pale lilac, lavender-blue or white, in very large, open panicles in late spring and 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
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Patio and container plants, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Wildlife gardens
Native toNew Zealand (S.Island)
Care notes
CultivationGrows well in poor to moderately fertile soil in sun or partials shade with protection from cold, drying winds. Tolerant of some pollution and can also be grown in a cool glasshouse in a loam-based compost with shade from hot sun
PruningPruning group 9
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe. Cultivars will not come true. Root semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer or autumn with added bottom heat
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