Also known as Long-Leaf Speedwell · Long-Leaved Speedwell · Long-Leaved Veronica
Garden Speedwell (Veronica longifolia) is a perennial herb valued for its upright spikes of blue, purple, or pink flowers, blooming from early to late summer.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Thrives in full sun but tolerates light shade, especially in hotter climates.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Prefers evenly moist soil, avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, hardy in most temperate climates. Protect young plants from harsh frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Light Feeding
25% intensity
Benefit from annual spring feeding; avoid over-fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out slightly between waterings, especially during hot, dry periods.
Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage a second flush of blooms and maintain an attractive appearance.
Cut back the plant by about half in late autumn or early spring to remove dead foliage and promote vigorous new growth. This also helps to prevent self-seeding.
Easily propagated from softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Alternatively, divide established clumps in early spring or autumn.
Sow seeds in autumn or early spring, either indoors or directly in the garden, for a naturalized effect.
Container-grown plants benefit from repotting every 2-3 years in spring to refresh the soil and prevent root-bound conditions. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one.
Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes. Use a good quality, well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Garden Speedwell (Veronica longifolia)
Where Garden Speedwell (Veronica longifolia) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Veronica |
| Species | Veronica longifolia |
Similar in genus Veronica
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
