Speedwell (Veronica ‘First Love’)

Speedwell

Features and Characteristics

Veronica is a genus of about 250 species of annuals, perennials and some sub-shrubs mainly from Europe.

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.

‘First Love’ is an erect, clump-forming speedwell that features a June-August bloom of intense fluorescent pink flowers packed into tapered-at-the-top terminal spikes. Narrow, lance-shaped, deep green leaves (to 3” long) form a foliage mound to 6-8” tall. Flowers spikes rise above the foliage mound to 10-12″ tall. U. S. Plant Patent Applied For (PPAF).

Care and Maintenance

Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun. Best performance occurs with consistent, regular moisture with sharp soil drainage (particularly in winter). Tolerates light shade. Remove spent flower spikes to encourage additional bloom. Plants may be cut back to basal growth after flowering.

Speedwell (Veronica ‘First Love’) Requirements

Hardiness zone	4 - 8
Sun light	Full sun
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Root rot may occur in wet, poorly-drained soils. Deer and rabbits tend to avoid this plant.

Uses

Rock gardens, foundations, border fronts and other sunny spots in the landscape. Good edging plant. Best grown in groups or massed. Containers.

Speedwell (Veronica ‘First Love’) Details

Common name	Speedwell
Botanical name	Veronica 'First Love'
Plant type	Herbaceous perennial
Family	Plantaginaceae
Hardiness zone	4 - 8
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Pink
Flowering period	June - August
Height	0.75 to 1 ft.
Width	1 - 1.50 feet