About
An evergreen shrub with a wide spreading and arching habit, with dark green rounded lance-shaped leaves. With racemes of purple flowers in summer, they can provide a second flush of flowers if they are pruned straight after flowering.
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
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, North-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 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
CultivationGrows well in poor to moderately fertile soil in sun or partial shade and is tolerant of some pollution. Plant in spring for best establishment before winter, may require some winter protection in cold areas
PruningPruning group 9, winter damage may need removing after a harsh winter
PropagationPropagate by taking semi-hardwood cuttings in summer with added bottom heat
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to downy mildews, fungal leaf spot, fungal rot, Phytophthora and sometimes honey fungus