I’m a Real Sweetie

Perennial of the Week: Veronica – ‘Speedwell’

Sweet, versatile Veronica (also called Speedwell), is a must-have for gardeners who want to attract hummingbirds and butterflies to their yards. Tall spikes of tiny, long-lasting blue, red, purple, pink, or white flowers make Veronica a perfect statement plant for garden beds. This plant is also a great “thriller” in a container planting, and works well around rocks or along a border.

Those who go from garden to table say Veronica americana tastes like watercress. In addition, herbalists in North America and Australia have used Veronica in medicinal treatments for centuries, and florists use dried Veronica in floral displays.

A favorite of gardeners for centuries, Veronica prefers full sun to light shade and is easy to maintain. It is deer resistant, drought tolerant, and can be grown as a cut flower. Hummingbirds and butterflies love this sweet plant, which continues to bloom for months and months.

Veronica is the right choice wherever you need an extra splash of color!