About

A sturdy evergreen shrub with glossy mid-green foliage, from late May this shrub is covered in an abundance of slender pale lilac flowers spikes.

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
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Cottage and informal garden, Coastal, City and courtyard gardens, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

CultivationPrefers moist but well-drained soil in full sun. 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 taking semi-ripe cuttings in summer, with added bottom heat
Pest resistanceMaybe susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to downy mildews, fungal leaf spot, fungal rot, Phytophthora and sometimes honey fungus