List 6 – Veronica spicata
Veronica spicata (spike speedwell)
Family: Plantaginaceae
Useful cultivars and selections:
- Very variable, ranging from different colours to woolly foliage
USDA Hardiness Zone:
Size:
- 30-90 cm wide
- 30-60 cm tall
Form:
- Clump-forming
Soil & Water requirements:
- Moist, well-drained
- Require summer irrigation if rainfall is less than 1” per week
Exposure:
- Full sun to partial shade
- Best results would be a location where they have morning sun and afternoon shade
Leaves:
- Small hairs on leaves; felt-like foliage
Flowers:
- Upright, flower spikes; looser in shade
- Long bloom period; commencing in late spring/early summer and then blooming repeatedly
- Bloom colour: pink, blue-violet, purple, white/near white
Maintenance:
- Remove spent flowers to prolong bloom period
Suitable uses:
- Front to middle of border
- Containers
- Often used as cut flowers for bouquets
Potential pairings:
- Ornamental grasses
- Rounded flowers (daylilies, yarrow, cranesbill)
Attracts:
- Bees
- Butterflies
- Birds
Other:
- Very reliable plant