Long-leaved speedwell
Veronica longifolia · Plantaginaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant long-leaved speedwell: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- July to September
- Adult size
- 60 to 120 cm tall, 30 to 45 cm wide
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -20 °C
- Origin
- Central and Eastern Europe, Asia
- Soil type
- Well-drained, fertile, neutral to slightly alkaline
Care
Exposure
Long-leaf speedwell prefers full sun for generous and continuous flowering. It tolerates partial shade, but flower density and vigor diminish. Plant it in a location receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Watering
Water regularly during the first summer to establish a deep root system. Once established, the plant tolerates drought well. Keep the soil slightly moist during the growing and flowering period, then reduce watering after September.
Soil
Prepare well-drained, moderately fertile soil: excess nutrients favor foliage at the expense of flowers. Amend with mature compost at planting time. Tolerates chalky and neutral soils well.
Fertilizing
A moderate application of balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would weaken stem strength. A flowering plant fertilizer applied once in June optimizes flowering.
Pruning and cutting
Remove spent flowers regularly to extend summer flowering. After flowering, cut stems back to 10-15 cm from the ground in autumn or late winter. This plant sometimes self-seeds; control seedlings if desired.
Diseases and pests
Generally robust, speedwell can suffer from root rot if drainage is poor. Watch for aphids in spring. Good air circulation prevents most fungal problems.
Did you know?
Long-leaf speedwell was long used in traditional herbal medicine in Central Europe under the name 'Saint Veronica's herb.' Its scientific name Veronica honors, according to legend, Saint Veronica's veil, depicting the Holy Shroud. Though primarily ornamental, it retains a certain reputation among herbalists, who attributed tonic properties to it.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Coral plantRusselia equisetiformis
- Bunchleaf penstemonPenstemon heterophyllus
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.