Veronica townsonii (H) — Clump-forming, Upright, Spreading

Overview

Veronica townsonii (H) is a plant with a clump-forming, upright, spreading habit in the genus Veronica, part of the Plantaginaceae family, with green, lance-shaped, toothed foliage. Veronica townsonii (H) grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, rock gardens, containers and ground cover.

About

Veronica townsonii is a clump-forming member of the plantain family with an upright, spreading habit and lance-shaped, toothed green leaves. It flowers from June to September. Suited to a sheltered position, it performs best in neutral loam or sandy soils kept moist but well drained. The plant combines easily with other low-growing perennials in the front of a border or in a rock garden.

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 townsonii belongs to the genus Veronica in the Plantaginaceae and forms upright, spreading clumps marked by lance-shaped, toothed green foliage. Flowering runs from June to September, providing a sustained display through the summer months. The species prefers a south- or west-facing, sheltered situation where it receives full sun or light afternoon shade. Plant in a neutral loam or sandy soil that remains moist without becoming waterlogged; the species tolerates both well-drained and moist conditions. In UK terms it is H5, meaning hardy in most garden situations through typical winter conditions. Choose a spot protected from strong, cold winds to prevent desiccation on exposed leaves. Use Veronica townsonii at the front of mixed borders, in rock gardens, in containers or as a low ground cover where its spreading habit can fill gaps between stones or edging plants. Allow room for individual clumps to spread so the summer flowering period (June–September) is displayed at close range, for example on the lip of a rockery or the border edge where flowers are easily seen.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Veronica

Sunlight: Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type: Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Neutral
Soil moisture: Well-drained, Moist
Aspect: South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Veronica townsonii (H) size, habit and characteristics

Habit: Clump-forming, Upright, Spreading
Foliage: Green, Lance-shaped, Toothed
Suggested uses: Borders, Rock gardens, Containers, Ground cover

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Veronica townsonii (H)

Propagation: Division, Cuttings, Seeds
Pest resistance: Resistant to common pests
Disease resistance: Resistant to powdery mildew

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Veronica townsonii (H)?

Veronica townsonii (H) prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Veronica townsonii (H) need?

Veronica townsonii (H) grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist.

Is Veronica townsonii (H) hardy in the UK?

Veronica townsonii (H) has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Veronica townsonii (H)?

Division, Cuttings, Seeds.

More in the Veronica genus

Browse all Veronica →