About

An annual wildflower, with slightly hairy, sprawling stems and toothed leaves to 2cm long. It self-seeds freely and is often considered a weed species. All year round it produces small blue flowers singly from the leaf axils.

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 pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5

Plant details

Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesWildflower meadow
Native toCaucasus to N Iran

Care notes

CultivationGrow in any fertile soil in sun or partial shade
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or rooted stem sections
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to downy mildews, fungal leaf spot, fungal rot, Phytophthora and sometimes honey fungus