Veronicastrum sibiricum (Culver's Root): Pinkish-Lavender Candelabras to 7 Feet

Overview

Veronicastrum sibiricum is a statuesque perennial sending up multiple 5-7 foot tapering spikes of pinkish-lavender flowers from summer to fall, resembling elegant living candelabras. Adds dramatic vertical accents to the back of mixed borders or wild gardens. Clump-forming, 1-3 feet wide.

Growing Conditions

Full sun to part shade in moist, well-drained soil. May need staking in exposed sites. Medium moisture.

Care and Maintenance

Divide in spring or fall. Stake early if needed. Cut back after flowering. Low maintenance.

Common Problems

Downy mildew, powdery mildew, leaf spot. Good air circulation helps.

Landscape Uses

• Back of mixed borders
• Wild/naturalized gardens
• Cottage, herb, meadow, woodland gardens
• Vertical accents
• Cut flowers (tall spikes)

Key Features

• 5-7 foot candelabra-like flower spikes
• Pinkish-lavender blooms, summer to fall
• Attracts butterflies
• Native (Siberia/Asia)
• Clump-forming
• Moderate grower