Plants in the genus Veronica are native to a wide variety of habitats: moist meadows and grasslands, dry, sunny meadows, rocky hillsides, and scree, and open woodland. They bear small, outward-facing flowers in blue, purple pink, or white with conspicuous stamens. Mat-forming species are perfect for a rock garden, alpine house or a trough. Larger species are suitable for the edge of a mixed, herbaceous border.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsIn some species, long racemes or spikes look like elegant candles that are lit from the bottom up.
CareGrow alpine species in moderately fertile to poor, well-drained soil in full sun. Protect species with felted leaves from winter moisture. Grow border species in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade.
PropagationSow seed in fall. Divide perennials in spring or fall. Take softwood cuttings of subshrubs in spring.
ProblemsScale insects, downy mildew, powdery mildew, rust, leaf smut, root rot.
