This reliable perennial adds interesting texture to gardens with its flower spikes.
Veronica, also known as speedwell, is a genus that comprises 250 species.
Veronica comes in many sizes and colors.
Credit:Grant Webster
Many of the spring-blooming types form mats of low-growing flowers.
Some grow silver foliage that contrasts with the richblue flowers.
Summer-blooming types may soar to higher heights and are more generous rebloomers.
Credit:Grant Webster
These taller species feature a broad spectrum of colors, including pinks, purples, blues, and whites.
Most veronica varieties youll find in the nursery trade are introduced species from other continents or hybrids.
The popular spiked speedwell (Veronica spicata) is native to Europe and Asia.
Credit: Denny Schrock
Plant scientists are working to improve disease resistance and enhance reblooming potential to further extend the veronica season.
Some new veronica flowers have heads that are short and branched, creating almost ball-shaped blossom clusters.
you’re free to also find varieties with lovely gold and silver foliage for added visual interest.
Credit: Denny Schrock
Low-growing types that do well in dry conditions are well-suited forrock gardens.
Grant Webster
How and When to Plant Veronica
Plant nursery transplants in the spring or early fall.
Press down on the soil to remove air pockets and water well.
Credit: Marty Baldwin
Spacing ranges between 1 and 3 feet depending on the variety.
Veronica Care Tips
Veronica is an easy-to-grow perennial if its growing conditions are met.
Light
Plant veronica infull sunfor best results.
Credit: Andrew Drake
Although it will tolerate some shade, flower production may suffer.
Without full sun, the plants may be affected by foliar diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot.
Soil and Water
Veronica plants preferwell-drained, loamy soilwith plenty of organic matter.
Credit: Andy Lyons
They grow in slightly acidic, neutral, and slightly alkaline soil (pH between 6.0 and 8.0).
Once established, the plants tolerate drought and need little supplemental watering.
During peak bloom, however, they appreciate some water if conditions are exceptionally dry.
Credit: Marty Baldwin
Temperature and Humidity
Veronica does best in areas with moderate humidity.
The plant is cold-hardy inUSDA Zones 311.
Pruning
Veronica benefits fromdeadheading.
Credit: Perry L. Struse
Trim spent blossoms back just below the base of the flower to encourage a second flush.
Pests and Problems
Veronica plants attractaphidsand whiteflies.
Dividing the plan is also helpful to reinvigorate mat-forming types that die out in the middle as they mature.
Credit: Marty Baldwin
Divide the plants in spring or late summer to early fall.
This hybrid forms a mat of vibrant flowers that occasionally rebloom throughout the season.
Zone 6-8
‘Georgia Blue’ Veronica
Veronica peduncularisGeorgia Blue develops large mats of toothed, purple-tinged foliage.
Credit: Bert Klassen
It grows 6 inches tall.
It grows 2 feet tall.
It grows to 2 feet tall.
Credit: Matthew Benson
It grows 6 inches tall.
It flaunts its color from early to midsummeror even longer if it’s deadheaded.
This perennial is ideal for softening the edge of a shaded path or creating a groundcover in dappled shade.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
Zone 3-8
Salvia
There are hundreds ofdifferent types of salvias, commonly called sage.
What they almost all have in common are beautiful, tall flower spikes and attractive, often gray-green leaves.
Countless varieties (including the herb used in cooking) are available to decorate ornamental gardens.
They’re valued for their very long season of bloom, right up until frost.
Hummingbirds love them, too.
The plant is deer-resistant and rabbit-resistant.
It’s also reported to begroundhog-resistant.
