Veronica spicata 'Icicle' (spiked speedwell 'Icicle') — perennial

Overview

Veronica spicata 'Icicle' is a perennial in the genus Veronica, part of the Plantaginaceae family. Veronica spicata 'Icicle' grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained soils and neutral and alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, rock gardens and containers. It is native to Europe.

About

Veronica spicata 'Icicle' is a perennial spiked speedwell in the Plantaginaceae, valued for its summer flowering. It flowers from June to September. The plant prefers a sunny position in well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil and requires only moderate moisture. It is hardy to H5 and native to Europe.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Veronica spicata

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)

In the garden

Veronica spicata 'Icicle' is a perennial member of the Plantaginaceae native to Europe, offered as a cultivar of the spiked speedwells. Its season of interest runs from June to September. As a perennial it reliably returns through the growing season where conditions suit its requirements. Position the plant in full sun on well-drained soil; it favours neutral to alkaline pH and moderate soil moisture. The H5 rating indicates it is hardy across most of the UK garden, so it will tolerate typical winter conditions without special winter protection in usual sites. Use 'Icicle' in mixed borders, rock gardens or containers where a long summer display is required. Given its growth habit and flowering period, place it where the summer spikes can be seen at eye level or slightly below, and choose companion plants with later or earlier peaks to extend interest through the season. The cultivar's defined flowering window—June to September—makes it straightforward to plan adjacent planting to fill gaps before and after its display.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Veronica

Sunlight: full sun
Soil type: well-drained
Soil pH: neutral, alkaline
Soil moisture: moderate
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Veronica spicata 'Icicle' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Suggested uses: borders, rock gardens, containers
Native to: Europe

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Veronica spicata 'Icicle'

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth and a possible second bloom.
Propagation: Division, cuttings