Overview
Veronica longifolia 'First Lady' is a perennial in the genus Veronica, part of the Plantaginaceae family. It typically grows around 1.0 m tall. Veronica longifolia 'First Lady' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders and cut flowers. It is native to Europe and Western Asia.
About
Veronica longifolia, known as garden speedwell or longleaf speedwell, is a flowering plant in the family Plantaginaceae where many introduced varieties in North America are native to Europe and Western Asia.
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)
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Veronica
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Exposure
- Full sun
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Veronica longifolia 'First Lady' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Height
- 1.0 m
- Suggested uses
- Borders, Cut flowers
- Native to
- Europe, Western Asia
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Veronica longifolia 'First Lady'
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to encourage new growth
- Propagation
- Division, Cuttings
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Veronica longifolia 'First Lady'?
Veronica longifolia 'First Lady' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.
What soil does Veronica longifolia 'First Lady' need?
Veronica longifolia 'First Lady' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Veronica longifolia 'First Lady'?
Cut back after flowering to encourage new growth.
How big does Veronica longifolia 'First Lady' grow?
Veronica longifolia 'First Lady' reaches a height of 1.0 m.
Is Veronica longifolia 'First Lady' hardy in the UK?
Veronica longifolia 'First Lady' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Veronica longifolia 'First Lady'?
Division, Cuttings.
More in the Veronica genus
- Veronica 'Silver Swallow' (H)
- Veronica exaltataSpeedwell
- Veronica teucriumSpeedwell
- Veronica teucrium 'Blue Fountain'Speedwell
- Veronica teucrium 'Crater Lake Blue'Speedwell
- Veronica teucrium 'Royal Blue'Speedwell
- Veronica townsonii (H)
- Veronica 'Mrs Adamson'Speedwell