Shrubby speedwell
Veronica fruticans · Plantaginaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around shrubby speedwell and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Family
- Plantaginaceae
- Type
- Dwarf shrub
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- June to August
- Mature size
- 20 to 40 cm tall, compact habit
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (-15 to -20 °C)
- Growth
- Slow to moderate
- Origin
- Alps and central European mountains
Care
Sunlight
Bushy speedwell prefers full sun exposure to develop beautiful abundant flowering. It tolerates partial shade, but you'll get fewer flowers. Choose a well-ventilated location to prevent stagnant humidity.
Soil and drainage
This alpine plant appreciates well-drained soil, even poor or gravelly. Avoid heavy, compact soils that promote root rot. Adding sand or gravel improves drainage.
Watering
Water regularly during the first year after planting to promote establishment. Once established, speedwell is undemanding: moderate watering is sufficient, except during prolonged dry spells. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings.
Pruning and maintenance
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage branching. Remove spent flowers to extend the flowering period. Drastic pruning is generally unnecessary thanks to its naturally bushy habit.
Fertilizing
This mountain plant tolerates poor soils and requires minimal fertilizer. Light feeding in spring is sufficient; prefer balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer to avoid favoring foliage at the expense of flowers.
Health and pests
Bushy speedwell is generally very resistant to diseases and pests. Only excess moisture can cause root rot or mold development. Ensure good drainage and air circulation.
Did you know?
Bushy speedwell is a true alpine survivor: it naturally grows in high mountains on rocky slopes where few plants can resist. Its compact habit and tiny bright blue flowers make it a favorite for rock gardens and alpine gardens, particularly beloved by mountain plant enthusiasts who admire its hardiness and generous flowering despite extreme conditions.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Ivy-leaved toadflaxCymbalaria muralis
- Spike speedwellVeronica spicata
- Heart-leaf Globe DaisyGlobularia cordifolia
- Talus slope penstemonPenstemon digitalis
- Coral plantRusselia equisetiformis
- Bunchleaf penstemonPenstemon heterophyllus
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.