Veronica (Speedwell): Versatile Perennials for Sun, Shade, and Everything Between

Veronica — a large genus of herbaceous perennials — has something for everyone: multiple flower colors, foliage textures, and forms. Whether you need an upright white accent or a durable evergreen ground cover, speedwell may be the ticket.

Quick Reference Guide

• Botanical name: Veronica spp.
• Common name: Speedwell
• Origin: Europe, Eurasia, North America
• USDA zones: 4–11 (species dependent)
• Elevation range: Up to 8,500 ft for many species
• Water needs: Moist to dry (Mediterranean natives like V. incana, V. pectinata, V. liwanensis are drought tolerant)
• Light: Sun to light shade
• Mature size: 2–24 inches tall
• Benefits: Attracts birds, butterflies; deer resistant; very floriferous; tall spikes (V. spicata 'Icicle') or low dense mats with pale blue to blue-purple, white, or pink flowers
• Planting time: Spring to fall
• Seasonal interest: Blooms spring to early fall; deadheading encourages rebloom; many low growers are evergreen

Distinguishing Traits

Plants are either upright and shrubby or low, spreading mats. Attractive foliage often features scalloped edges. Leaves may be glossy green or soft gray, arranged in whorls on the stem — adding textural interest.

Missouri Botanical Garden

MARPA DESIGN STUDIO

Design Uses

Taller speedwells (V. spicata, V. austriaca 'Crater Lake Blue') shine in mixed borders. Pair with grass-like foliage (daylilies, red hot poker, spiderwort) or large-leaved plants (sea kale, mullein, lady's mantle). Low-growing speedwells work as living-mulch ground cover in shrub borders or flowing between boulders in rock gardens.

Classic Nursery & Landscape Co. / Alan Burke, ASLA

Planting Notes

Easily grown in average, well-drained garden soil.

Dark blue spike speedwell (V. spicata 'Royal Candles'), blue star creeper, tall sedum, annual geranium