About
A large, upright, evergreen shrub to 2.5m, with dark green, glossy, leathery, lance-shaped leaves up to 15cm long. White, or very pale purple, flowers are produced in long, upright spikes in 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
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in poor or moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil in a sunny position with shelter from cold drying winds. See Hebe cultivation
PruningDeadhead to improve appearance and encourage more flowers. Pruning group 9 if needed
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe, or by semi-ripe cuttings with bottom heat in late summer or early autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceHigh Risk Host for Xylella fastidiosa. May be susceptible to downy mildews, fungal leaf spot, fungal rot, Phytophthora and sometimes honey fungus