
April 28, 2025
Most gardeners find it hard to grow perennials in poor soil, with irregular watering, and common garden pests or diseases. Certain plants require care and don’t withstand a cold front. There are plenty of perennials that thrive under different conditions and are easy to care for, but for new gardeners or for those who have little time for gardening, choosing the right perennial can be tricky.
Speedwell or Veronica is a colorful and low-care perennial. It produces tall spikes of blue, purple, pink or white flowers, making for a bright and cheery display. This plant also attract bees and butterflies, which encourage local pollinators. Unlike many other perennials, it does not require much effort to grow, which makes it a well-suited option for the new and seasoned gardener alike.
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Veronica plants are native to Europe, Asia and North America. They flourish in meadows, woodlands, and alpine environments. Their so easy adaptability have made them popular in all gardens in every part of the world.
The name “Speedwell” is thought to refer to the plant’s habit of growing quickly and easily establishing itself. In the past Veronica was appreciated not only for its beauty as an ornamental plant but also for some pharmacological properties. The herbal medicine was used to cure respiratory, digestive, and skin disorders. The plant has been linked with good fortune and protection for ages. In some cultures, if people carried a sprig of Speedwell, they would come back home safely.
Today, Veronica is a staple of perennial gardens, rock gardens and pollinator-friendly plots. As favorite gardener’s flower around the world, it is resilient, long-lived and attracts the attention of bees and butterflies as well. Modern hybrids have been bred for better flower color, size and disease resistance, making it even more attractive for today's landscape.
Veronica (Speedwell) belongs to the Plantaginaceae family that contains a wide diversity of herbaceous plants. This genus has everything from low ground covers to upright perennials. These Plants are also valued for their beautiful tall, blooming crystals and adaptability to garden beds.
Speedwell is a versatile perennial that can be spotted by their magnificent flower spikes and remarkable garden adaptability.
Veronica is a gorgeous and easy to grow perennial, adding color and life into any garden. So, here are a few reasons to consider Veronica for the garden.
Veronica is a tough and adaptable perennial that will do well in all garden situations. These are the required growing conditions for Veronica success:
Veronica prefers well-drained, loamy soil but will also grow in sandy or rocky conditions. It likes a neutral to mildly acidic pH (5.8 to 7.5). Well-drained, well-working soil is important because the plant is unable to handle soggy soil that often causes root rot. Putting in organic materials like compost, can help to build soil health and fertility.
Veronica Perennials prefer full sun, over 6 hours of sun is best! A few varieties will stand partial shade, though too much shade may limit flowering.
Once established, Veronica is drought resistant and requires moderate watering. And while it enjoys having its roots in moisture, it prefers them slightly dry to too wet. Water well but infrequently, letting the soil dry between waterings.
Most species of Veronica are hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9, although some species may withstand colder or hotter climes. In cooler climates Veronica might die back in winter, but will return again in spring. Applying mulch in late fall protects the roots from frost. Ensuring afternoon shade and deep watering every once in a while in hot places will avoid stress related to high temperatures.
Veronica is a perfect companion for the other sun-loving perennials. Some great companion plants include:
Veronica can be sown in spring or fall, depending on the climate:
Choosing the right site is good for Veronica’s growth. Follow these steps for site preparation:
Planted correctly, this helps Veronica flourish and achieve healthy flowers:
With some specific care, Veronica (Speedwell) will stay healthy and bloom brightly, adapting well to several conditions in the garden. With routine watering, feeding, trimming and insect control, it continues to thrive with little effort on your part.
Veronica requires constant watering, particularly when newly planted. Watering every other day helps young plants develop strong roots. Once mature, Veronica is drought tolerant and needs watering no more than once a week in dry conditions.
Be careful not to overwater, since too much moisture can cause the roote to rot. The soil should dry out a bit between waterings. They should be watered deeply at their base so they put down strong roots and prevent leaf diseases that arise from overhead watering.
Fertilize Veronica at the starting of the growing time to keep it healthy and blossoming. Organic compost or a balanced fertilizer in the 10-10-10 ratio will supply necessary nutrients. A high phosphorus fertilizer applied mid-season encourages flowers that stay longer.
Be careful not to overdo it with nitrogen, as it encourages leafy growth rather than blooms. Organic alternatives such as compost tea or fish emulsion provide consistent, natural food from season to season.
Regular pruning and deadheading help keep Veronica tidy and stimulate repeat blooming. Snipping faded flowers just above a leaf node promotes new blooms to develop. Light pruning also shapes the plant and keeps it from growing too tall and leggy.
Cut back Veronica at the end of the growing season to a few inches above the soil surface in preparation for winter. This allows for vigorous regrowth the next spring.
Veronica are generally pest and disease resistant, but there can be the occasional issues:
Depending on the preference of the gardener and the desired speed of growth, Veronica (Speedwell) can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or division.
Veronica should be divided in early spring or early fall when moderate temperatures will give the plant enough time to recover before severe weather conditions.
Where is the best place to plant Veronica?
Veronica thrives in full sun and well drained soil. It grows well in garden beds, borders, rock gardens and containers.
Is Veronica a perennial?
Yes, Veronica (Speedwell) is a tough perennial, coming back year after year with little care or attention.
What is Speedwell used for?
Most Speedwell species are grown for ornamental purposes and may prove attractive to pollinators. Certain species have a long history of use in herbal medicine for common complaints.
Veronica is a tough and adaptable perennial that adds lasting beauty and the shades of color to the garden. This perennial is an ideal candidate for gardeners of all skill levels, offering attractiveness to pollinators, long season of bloom, and low maintenance. With proper planting, care, and propagation, gardeners can have lovely, lush Veronica plants for many growing seasons to come! Learn more about the best garden grown perennials on Growcycle.
Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.