Consulta Plantas

Care of the plant Veronica spicata or Spiked speedwell

The genus Veronica, family Plantaginaceae, includes 500 species of herbaceous plants, mostly native to the Northern Hemisphere. Some species are: Veronica spicata, Veronica filiformis, Veronica austriaca, Veronica perfoliata, Veronica longifolia.

Common name: Spiked speedwell. This species is native to Eurasia.

They are evergreen herbaceous plants that reach 70 cm (27.5") in height. The narrow, toothed leaves are green in color with silvery hairiness. They produce showy and erect conical inflorescences filled with small blue or pink flowers, depending on the variety. They bloom from spring to mid-summer.

They are used in borders, in rockeries, on sunny slopes and in pots for patios and terraces or as an indoor plant next to a window. They are ideal as a cut flower for floral decorations.

The Veronica spicata needs full sun but also grows in light shade exposure. They resist frost well.

They will grow in any well-drained soil but appreciate that it contains a little organic matter. Planting is done in early spring.

Water regularly, waiting for the substrate to dry completely. In winter, excessive and constant humidity must be avoided at the roots.

Fertilize with a little compost in early spring.

Prune withered flower spikes to encourage the appearance of new inflorescences. In areas with intense frost they can be pruned from the base at the beginning of winter.

They are plants resistant to the usual pests and diseases but sensitive to the accumulation of water in the roots.

They are propagated by division in autumn or early spring, by cuttings and from seeds sown in spring.

Images of the plant Veronica spicata or Spiked speedwell