Persian speedwell
Veronica persica · Plantaginaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant persian speedwell: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- January to June (mainly spring)
- Adult size
- 15 to 40 cm in height, spreading habit
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (zones 3 to 9)
- Origin
- Southwest Asia, Caucasus
- Soil type
- Well-drained, tolerant, undemanding
Care
Watering
Keep the soil moderately moist in spring and summer, especially during the growing period. In winter, reduce watering as the plant is dormant. Avoid excess water which promotes root rot.
Light exposure
Place your speedwell in full sun or partial shade for optimal flowering. It tolerates partly shaded locations well but will flower less generously. Good light encourages better compactness.
Soil and substrate
Ordinary, well-drained and slightly acidic soil works perfectly. This hardy plant adapts to most garden soils. Adding organic matter at sowing or planting improves establishment.
Pruning and cleanup
After flowering, cut back the plant lightly to encourage branching and a compact shape. Remove dead or weak stems in late winter. Early spring pruning boosts vigor.
Fertilizing
Undemanding, a balanced feed in spring is quite sufficient. Organic fertilizer or light monthly feeding during flowering supports flower production.
Diseases and pests
Generally robust, it can be affected by powdery mildew in overly humid conditions. Good drainage and air circulation prevent most problems. Watch for slugs in spring on young plants.
Did you know?
Persian Speedwell takes its name from its region of origin, but it has conquered European gardens since the 16th century. In botany, its name Veronica evokes the Christian legend of Saint Veronica, as the blue petals once reminded people of a religious image. Today, it has naturalized in many places where it flowers early and abundantly, sometimes becoming semi-invasive in temperate gardens.
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
- 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.