The Botanical Diary
S
Flowers

Spike Speedwell

Veronica spicata
Also known asspeedwell, spike speedwell, veronica

One of the longest-flowering herbaceous plants in the garden

Regions
all regions
Colour
blue, purple, pink, white
Spike Speedwell (speedwell, spike speedwell, veronica)
🌸
Bloom
June–August
☀️
Light
Full sun
💧
Watering
Low
📏
Height
0,3–0,6 m
❄️
Hardiness
Zone 4а

Spike Speedwell is one of the most beloved herbaceous perennials among gardeners who value its hardiness and reliability. Native to European steppes and meadows, this plant has spread throughout the world thanks to its enchanting beauty and practicality. Wild populations of Spike Speedwell can still be found today in temperate latitudes — from the Mediterranean to the Caucasus — which clearly demonstrates its remarkable ability to adapt to the most varied climatic conditions.

The distinctive feature of this plant is its characteristic dense flower spikes, upon which delicate flowers open one after another like beads on a string. The palette of varieties is astounding in its diversity: from deep blue and soft lavender to gentle pink and snow-white. Flowering begins in June and extends until the end of August, and with regular removal of spent spikes, it can bloom right up to the first frosts. It is precisely for this exceptional flowering duration that Spike Speedwell is rightfully considered one of the most attractive herbaceous plants for gardens with extended summers.

In landscape design, Spike Speedwell is simply indispensable. It stands proudly in mixed borders alongside roses and sage, looks magnificent in gravel gardens, and its delicate flower spikes are sure to find a place in bouquets and floral compositions. In flower beds, the plant plays the role of a light, filigree backdrop, allowing more vibrant companions to occupy the central position.

If you dream of attracting bees and butterflies to your garden, Spike Speedwell is your best helper. Its drought tolerance guarantees peaceful endurance of hot days, and its generous, undemanding nature makes it ideal for gardeners who value beauty without complicated maintenance.

Location & soil

Spike Speedwell — planting & location

LightFull sun
Soil typewell-drained, рН 6–7,5
Planting timeApril або August
Plant spacing0,3–0,4 m
Planting depth8–10 см

Drought tolerant, bee-friendly

Water needs

How to water Spike Speedwell

IntensityLow
FrequencyEvery 14 days (в)
Volume5–7
MethodAt the base

Drought tolerant

Annual care

Fertilizing and pruning: Spike Speedwell

Spring fertilizingMineral complex fertiliser (April)
Summer fertilizingNo feeding required
Autumn fertilizingNo feeding required
Pruning timeAfter flowering (перша хвиля)
Pruning typeSanitary

Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage repeat flowering

Cold hardiness

Spike Speedwell — winter hardiness & care

Hardiness zoneZone 4а
Winter coverWinter protection not required
Cover timing
Plant protection

Diseases and pests of Spike Speedwell

Diseases
Powdery mildew
Pests
Rarely
Garden design

What grows well with Spike Speedwell?

Сальвія, Catmint, ехінацея