Veronica longifolia (garden speedwell) — Perennial

Overview

Veronica longifolia is a perennial in the genus Veronica, part of the Plantaginaceae family. It typically grows around 1.0 m tall. Veronica longifolia grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, cottage gardens and cut flowers. It is native to Europe.

About

Veronica longifolia is a perennial in the Plantaginaceae that bears upright spikes of lilac to purple flowers from June to September, reaching about 1.0 m. Leaves are lance-shaped and arranged along the stems, while the flowering spikes provide summer height and structure. It is native to Europe and commonly used where tall, vertical flower spikes are wanted. Plants perform best in full sun on moist but well-drained soils.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Veronica longifolia

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

An upright perennial from Europe, Veronica longifolia produces conspicuous spikes of lilac to purple flowers through the summer months (June to September). It sits at roughly 1.0 m tall and belongs to the Plantaginaceae; its vertical habit gives clear architectural height in mixed beds. The plant suits traditional cottage borders and formal mixed borders alike and has a long history of use as a cut flower. Place specimens in full sun and a site that remains moist but drains freely; it tolerates sandy, loamy and clay soils provided they do not remain waterlogged. It is fully hardy in the UK (H7), so established plants withstand winter frosts, and it also corresponds to USDA zones 4–10 for wider temperate use. Space plants so air can circulate around the stems to reduce humidity at the base. Plant where tall summer spikes are wanted—for back-of-border interest, cottage-style beds or as stems for cutting. Regular removal of spent flowers can tidy the display and encourage sustained flowering through the season. Use the flowering stems in summer arrangements, cutting when several flowers on a spike are open for the best vase effect.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Veronica

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Veronica longifolia size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial
Height: 1.0 m
Suggested uses: Borders, Cottage gardens, Cut flowers
Native to: Europe

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Veronica longifolia

Cultivation: Prefers moist, well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging; deadhead to prolong flowering
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth
Propagation: Division, Cuttings, Seed

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Veronica longifolia?

Prefers moist, well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging; deadhead to prolong flowering.

Where is the best place to plant Veronica longifolia?

Veronica longifolia prefers full sun.

What soil does Veronica longifolia need?

Veronica longifolia is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.