Description

Veronicas are easy to grow with a long bloom time. Bushy, upright, clump-forming perennials with dense slender spikes of star-shaped flowers that open from the base of the spike up. Lance-shaped leaves. With their “medium” height, veronicas would be good for the middle of the border – in front of shrubs and behind lower growing perennials. Attracts bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. Veronicas prefers consistent moisture with sharp drainage. Deadhead to encourage additional bloom. Shear back foliage if it becomes worn-looking after flowering. Amending soils, especially very heavy and light types, with generous amounts of organic matter will result in improved performance. Per the Missouri Botanical Garden, the genus name honors Saint Veronica who reportedly gave a handkerchief to Jesus so he could wipe sweat from his face on the way to Calvary, with some genus plants having markings that resemble the markings on the sacred handkerchief. ‘Very Van Gogh’ has purple flowers covering the top half of the plant. The bright green, upright clumping foliage may take on some red tones in fall. Height: 18-20” Spread: 18-24” Family: Plantaginaceae Bloom time: mid-summer to late summer Sun: full sun Water: medium Deer and rabbit resistant photo credit: Walters Gardens