Veronica incana (silver speedwell) — perennial

Overview

Veronica incana is a perennial in the genus Veronica, part of the Plantaginaceae family. Veronica incana grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. It is native to Eastern Europe, Russia, Siberia, Mongolia and northern China.

About the genus

Veronica is the largest genus in the flowering plant family Plantaginaceae, with about 500 species. It was formerly classified in the family Scrophulariaceae. Common names include speedwell, bird's eye, and gypsyweed.

Wikipedia contributors, "Veronica (plant)", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Veronica (plant)

In the garden

Veronica incana is a perennial member of the Plantaginaceae native to Eastern Europe, Russia and stretches of Siberia into Mongolia and northern China. Its distribution across cold continental regions aligns with its UK hardiness rating of H5, classed as hardy, and explains why it tolerates cooler seasons better than many tender perennials. Give plants a sunny or lightly shaded position and a free-draining soil with steady, moderate moisture rather than waterlogging. The species prefers well-drained conditions and will not thrive where soils remain saturated; in heavier soils improve drainage with grit or in raised beds. In the UK a sheltered spot against a warmer wall is not required but can bring earlier onset of growth. Veronica incana flowers from June to September and suits mixed sun borders and gravel or rock beds where drainage is naturally good. Use it where a hardy perennial that flowers through summer is wanted, and expect reliable seasonal display provided plants are not kept in overly wet ground.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Veronica

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: well-drained
Soil moisture: moderate
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Veronica incana size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Native to: Eastern Europe, Russia, Siberia, Mongolia, northern China

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Veronica incana

Propagation: seed,division

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Veronica incana?

Veronica incana prefers full sun and partial shade.

What soil does Veronica incana need?

Veronica incana grows best in well-drained soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.

Is Veronica incana hardy in the UK?

Veronica incana has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.