About
This lax, evergreen shrub with purplish stems bearing narrow leaves, with purple midribs and margins. Dense, narrow racemes of violet flowers appear in summer and 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, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, West-facing, East-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Patio and container plants, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrows well in poor to moderately fertile soil in sun or partials shade and is tolerant of some pollution. See for further information about RHS plant trials and awards
PruningPruning group 9
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe. Cultivars will not come true. Root semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer or autumn with added bottom heat
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to downy mildews, fungal leaf spot, fungal rot, Phytophthora and sometimes honey fungus