Description
UVeronica hybrid | Hybrid Speedwell ‘First Love’
This hybrid speedwell, sometimes labeled as a Spiked Speedwell, is a tidy, upright, herbaceous perennial that forms a low mound of attractive deep green foliage and bears numerous spikes of densely packed bright pink flowers that form tapered, spike-like racemes that rise well above the foliage. The showy flowers reach 18-24 inches in height and typically bloom from June to August. They are attractive to bees and butterflies. =
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 plants having markings that resemble the markings on the sacred handkerchief.
Grows best in average, consistently moist, well-drained soil in full sun. Requires adequate winter drainage. Will tolerate light shade. Deadhead for repeat blooms.
Ideal near the border edge, in containers and rock gardens. Spreads via slow-growing root-stock and self-seeding.
Type: Perennial
Sun exposure: Full sun
Mature height: 2-3 ft
Mature width: 18-24 inches
Hardiness zones: 3-8
