About

This bushy, clump-forming perennial to around 75cm high, with upright stems and long, lance-shaped, toothed green leaves. Long, narrow spikes of deep blue flowers are produced from mid summer through to early 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
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy, Clump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

CultivationThrives in sun or light shade, in moist, well-drained soil that does not dry out. Mulching is beneficial on drier soils. Will not tolerate waterlogging. May need support, see staking perennials
PruningDeadhead to encourage further flowers. Remove faded flower stems in autumn
PropagationPropagate by division in spring or autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to downy mildews, powdery mildews and leaf spot