Veronica
( ver - RON - ik - uh )
At-A-Glance InformationThis genus of flowering perennial plants needs full sun and has varying water needs, depending on the species. The flowers will attract birds and butterflies to your garden. They range in height and width, and produce masses of flowers in white, pink, purple, rose, or deep blue. They are wonderful in rock gardens and in borders.
|
Veronica Species and Varietals
The best growing zones for Veronica vary depending on the species; for more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Veronica alpina This species is native to Europe, Eurasia, and North America and has a creeping habit. It grows well in zones 1-7 and 14-17; produces spiked clusters of blue flowers in spring and early summer. In warm areas, it will make a repeat showing in fall. These plants need regular water. Variety 'Alba' grows to 10 inches tall and has white flowers. |
Veronica gentianoides (Gentian Speedwell) This species grows well in zones 1-9 and 14-24 and has hairy foliage. Forms a foliage mat up to 1.5 feet tall and sends up 8-inch tall stems topped by clustered blue flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. It needs little to moderate water. Varieties include 'Mrs. Holt' (with pale pink flowers), 'Heavenly Blue' (reaching just 6 inches tall), 'Trehane' (with golden foliage and blue flowers) and 'Aztec Gold' (with blue flowers and greenish-gold foliage). |
Veronica repens This species grows well in zones 3-9 and 14-24 and is native to the Mediterranean, reaching a half inch tall and a foot wide (or more). Leaves are shiny and green and produces clusters of tiny lavender to white flowers in springtime. This species can tolerate some shade and needs little to moderate water. Variety 'Sunshine' has yellow-green foliage. |
Veronica spicata
Best in zones A2, A3, 1-9 and 14-21 and native to Europe and Asia. Forms a 1.5-2 foot wide clump with 2 foot tall flowering stems topped with spikes of bright blue flowers. Foliage is green and glossy. Will bloom over a long season if deadheaded regularly. This species needs regular water. Varieties are described below.
Best in zones A2, A3, 1-9 and 14-21 and native to Europe and Asia. Forms a 1.5-2 foot wide clump with 2 foot tall flowering stems topped with spikes of bright blue flowers. Foliage is green and glossy. Will bloom over a long season if deadheaded regularly. This species needs regular water. Varieties are described below.
Veronica umbrosa 'Georgia Blue' Native to Georgia, this varietal grows best in zones 2-9 and 14-24; it forms a mat 6-8 inches tall and a few feet wide, Leaves are small and dark green and bronze in cooler weather. Flowers are cobalt with white eyes and bloom from summer through fall. Needs regular water for best performance. |
Caring for Veronica
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
|
Propagating camellias
|
Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 647, Veronica
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or photos you’d like to add to the gallery, please let me know by sending me a message using the button below!