Veronica spicata Bubblegum Candles ('Verspi'PBR)

RHS Plant Profile
spiked speedwell [Bubblegum Candles]

Synonyms

Veronica spicata 'Verspi'PBR

Plants for pollinators
Herbaceous Perennial

A compact, clump-forming herbaceous perennial with lance-shaped, toothed mid to dark green leaves and upright slender stems of small, deep pink flowers appearing in spring and summer

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Plantaginaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Semi evergreen
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
Trade

How to Grow

Cultivation

Tolerant of a wide range of soils, as long as they are not extremely dry or prone to waterlogging. Prefers loamy, moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soils and a position in full sun or light shade

Propagation

Propagate by division

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance
  • 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