Veronica spicata (Speedwell): Candle-Like Spikes for Summer Bloom

Veronica spicata is one of hundreds of speedwells. Summer brings rounded clumps of small (1½ in.) green oblong leaves and 15–20 in. candle-like spikes densely packed with tiny (¼–½ in.) tubular, 4–5 lobed flowers. Cultivars: 'Blue Fox' (blue), 'Red Fox' (deep rosy red), 'Icicle' (white, gray-green leaves).

• Zones: 1–9, 14–21, 38, 41–43
• Light: Full sun
• Water: Regular
• Soil: Well-drained (critical in Southern gardens)
• Division: Thrives on frequent division—divide clumps every 2 years for best growth/bloom.