Veronica spicata subsp. spicata
spiked speedwell
A mat-forming, herbaceous perennial to about 30cm with creeping stems and lance-shaped, grey-green leaves. Dense spires of tiny, blue, star-shaped flowers are produced on upright stems from early to late summer
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Grey Silver | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Blue | Green Grey Silver | ||
| Autumn | Green Grey Silver | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Plantaginaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Matforming
- Genus
Veronica can be annuals, perennials or sub-shrubs with paired leaves and small flowers usually in terminal or axillary racemes or spikes
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Eurasia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in well-drained soil in a sunny position. May need protection from winter wet
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in a cold frame in autumn, or by division in autumn or spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- City and courtyard gardens
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Deadhead after flowering
Pests
May be susceptible to aphids
Diseases
May be susceptible to downy mildews, fungal leaf spot, fungal rot, Phytophthora and sometimes honey fungus
Get involved
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