Veronica ‘Royal Candles’

Veronica produces attractive spikes of predominantly blue, but also in pink and white in early summer. These spikes mature from the bottom so that the colour moves up the spike. They provide a good nectar source for bees.

Veronicas are easy to grow, ideally in a moist sunny position. There are ground cover varieties such as Veronica prostrata which grows to 15cm (6”) to taller varieties which reach 75cm (2½ ft). They are occasionally affected by mildew which is mainly prevented by keeping the soil moist, but can be treated with fungus fighter if necessary. They are hardy, lasting for many years but die back to ground level each winter. Feeding with a slow release feed such as gro-more in spring keeps the foliage looking at its freshest.

They can be grown in the herbaceous border and alpine ground cover varieties look excellent between the rocks in a rockery.

Veronicas grow well with herbaceous salvias and lavenders to give a blue-themed border, but can also be grown with plenty of other cottage garden plants.

Veronica ‘Ulster Blue Dwarf’	Veronica ‘Heidlekind’	Veronica ‘Purpleicious’	Veronica prostrata