Veronica virginica (Culver's root) — perennial herbaceous

Overview

Veronica virginica is a perennial herbaceous in the genus Veronica, part of the Plantaginaceae family. Veronica virginica grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Suggested uses include wildlife garden, meadow and cut flower. It is native to eastern United States and southeastern Canada.

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

A native of the eastern United States and south-eastern Canada, Veronica virginica is a perennial herbaceous plant that carries its flowers on upright spikes through the summer months. Flowering runs from June to September, with blooms usually white and sometimes tinged pink or purple, making the spikes a structural element in late-summer plantings. It performs well in full sun to partial shade and favours moist or wet soil conditions; it tolerates loam, sandy or clay soils across acidic to alkaline pH. Place it where soils remain reliably damp rather than bone-dry, for example alongside a pond margin, in a damp border or within a low-lying meadow pocket. Use Culver's root in wildlife gardens and meadow schemes where height and summer flowering are needed, or in beds grown for cutting. Planting several together gives better visual impact and supports insects through its long bloom period, while stems can be included in late-summer vase arrangements as part of mixed cuts.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Veronica

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: loam, sandy, clay
Soil pH: acidic, neutral, alkaline
Soil moisture: moist,wet

Plant details

Veronica virginica size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial herbaceous
Suggested uses: wildlife garden, meadow, cut flower
Native to: eastern United States, southeastern Canada

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Veronica virginica

Cultivation: Prefers moist, well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade. Tolerates a range of soil types.
Pruning: Cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh growth.
Propagation: Seed, division

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Veronica virginica?

Prefers moist, well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade. Tolerates a range of soil types.

Where is the best place to plant Veronica virginica?

Veronica virginica prefers full sun and partial shade.

What soil does Veronica virginica need?

Veronica virginica is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including loam, sandy and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist to wet.