About

An evergreen shrub to about 60cm in height and spread, with variegated cream and pale green foliage. Purple flowers in spikes, appear in the summer and 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, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH3

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy, Columnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens, Gravel garden, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

CultivationPlant in moist but well-drained or well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Shelter from severe frost.
PruningClear out any dead or frost damaged stems or branches and lightly trim to shape in spring by cutting back to a bud. Remove spent flower heads to prolong flowering and maintain appearance.
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to downy mildew and leaf spot. At risk of infection from the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa subsp. Multiplex if it were to enter the country.