Veronica spicata aka Spiked Speedwell

Veronica spicata, or spiked speedwell, belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. This herbaceous perennial comes from Europe and Asia. It is native to Great Britain and Ireland too. The plant forms upright clumps and sheds its leaves seasonally. Its blue flowers suit sunny beds and draw visiting insects. Gardeners grow it in borders, rock gardens, and cottage gardens.

Garden plants reach about 2–3 feet [0.6–0.9 metres] tall. RHS lists an upper height of 3.3 feet [1 metre]. Its shorter description gives about 2 feet [0.6 metres]. Spread also varies between the sources. NC State gives 2–2.5 feet [0.6–0.76 metres] across. RHS lists a smaller spread, reaching 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. The green leaves grow in pairs along the stems. Each leaf is simple, with a pointed tip and toothed edges. Their shape ranges from narrow and lance-like to oval. Fine hairs cover the leaves, which may look silvery. The stems have no scent.

Small blue flowers crowd into racemes at the stem tips. These upright flower spikes taper toward their ends. Each bloom has a star shape and four or five petals. Flower stems reach about 2–2.5 feet [0.6–0.76 metres]. Missouri Botanical Garden gives a June to August bloom season. NC State describes flowering from late spring into midsummer. Bees and butterflies visit the flowers. The flower stems also suit fresh arrangements. Cutting plants back to the basal rosette after flowering can bring autumn blooms.

Choose full sun and soil that lets excess water drain. Moist soil suits the plant, though RHS also records drought resistance. It can grow in chalk, clay, loam, or sand. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. Rich loam is another suitable choice noted by NC State. Sources describe its growth rate as moderate and its care as easy. RHS gives a two-to-five-year period to reach full size. USDA hardiness spans zones 3–8; RHS rates it H4. Seed offers one way to raise new plants.

Spiked speedwell works in wildlife gardens and near house foundations. Sources also report resistance to deer and rabbits. Serious pest and disease trouble is not usual. Yet wet soil can cause root rot, including in winter. Aphids, downy mildew, and fungal leaf spot may occur. RHS also lists Phytophthora, fungal rot, and occasional honey fungus.