Prostrate speedwell (Veronica prostrata 'Buttercup')
Veronica prostrata 'Buttercup' is a low-maintenance, mat-forming ground cover known for golden foliage and bright lavender-blue flowers.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
Veronica prostrata ‘Buttercup’ is a highly valued, mat-forming herbaceous perennial perfect for gardeners seeking year-round interest with minimal effort. This selection, Prostrate speedwell, is primarily recognized for its distinctive golden foliage, which offers a striking contrast against traditional greens in the garden. It spreads readily via sterile, prostrate stems, creating a dense, low-growing carpet ideal for covering bare soil.
Blooming occurs from June to July with racemes of tiny, charming lavender-blue flowers that draw attention to its low stature. The exceptional low maintenance requirements and robust nature make Veronica prostrata ‘Buttercup’ an essential element for naturalistic plantings or tidy, modern landscapes.
This golden-leaved speedwell, often sold as Veronica prostrata ‘Buttercup’, thrives in full sun, which enhances its best golden color, though it tolerates partial shade gracefully. Its spreading habit and ability to naturalize successfully position it as a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution for slopes, rock crevices, or edging.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Plantaginaceae
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-8
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 0.25-0.5 ft
- Spread: 0.25-1 ft
- Bloom Time: June to July
- Bloom Description: Lavender-blue
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Low
How to Grow
Plant Veronica prostrata ‘Buttercup’ in the spring or fall when conditions are mildest. This Prostrate speedwell needs average, medium soil that drains well; it strongly dislikes sitting in wet or poorly drained conditions, which can lead to root rot. Ensure the planting location receives adequate sunlight—full sun yields the richest golden foliage color, whereas part shade results in a lighter, more chartreuse hue.
Water needs are medium; establish the plant with regular watering, but once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant provided the soil remains generally adequate. Fertilizing is rarely necessary; this perennial excels in average garden soil. Proper cultural care focuses on avoiding overly wet conditions to maintain plant health.
After the main bloom period concludes in early summer, plants benefit significantly from shearing. Shearing Veronica prostrata ‘Buttercup’ after flowering revitalizes the appearance and encourages a fresh flush of foliage. This low-maintenance perennial generally requires little fuss throughout the growing season.
Landscape Uses
Prostrate speedwell is primarily utilized as an effective ground cover due to its dense, low-mounding habit. It excels in rock gardens, where its trailing stems can spill attractively over stone edges, softening hardscaping features beautifully. Furthermore, this plant is excellent for naturalizing areas where a creeping, weed-suppressing layer is desired.
Consider planting Veronica prostrata ‘Buttercup’ along borders where its dense mat meets pathways or lawn edges neatly. Its bright foliage color contrasts wonderfully with darker evergreen shrubs or plants that feature deep purple or blue flowers. It pairs well with other low, sun-loving perennials like creeping thyme or sedums.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
Veronica prostrata, sometimes commonly called harebell speedwell, is a low-growing, mat-forming ground cover which typically grows 6-8” tall and spreads indefinitely by sterile, prostrate stems. Short, dense racemes of tiny, pale-to-deep blue flowers (1/3” across) appear in the upper leaf axils of upright flowering stems in late spring to early summer. ‘Buttercup’ is a golden-leaved speedwell, typically forming a dense foliage mat to 3” tall with golden yellow leaves that resist scorch.
Tolerances
- Rabbit
- Deer
Potential Problems
This variety generally exhibits no serious insect or disease issues, contributing significantly to its appeal as a low-maintenance plant. The most critical cultural issue to prevent is root rot, which occurs when the soil remains consistently wet or poorly drained. Deer and rabbits tend to browse away from Prostrate speedwell, offering excellent protection against common garden pests. Ensure planting sites have excellent drainage to guarantee long-term success with Veronica prostrata ‘Buttercup’.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Prostrate speedwell suitable for?
Veronica prostrata ‘Buttercup’ is hardy and thrives across USDA Zones 3 through 8.
How large does Veronica prostrata ‘Buttercup’ grow?
This perennial typically reaches a short height between 0.25 to 0.5 feet and spreads to cover an area between 0.25 to 1 foot wide.
When does Prostrate speedwell bloom?
The main bloom time for this speedwell is during June and July, producing lovely lavender-blue flowers.
What sun exposure does Veronica prostrata ‘Buttercup’ need?
For optimal performance, plant Veronica prostrata ‘Buttercup’ in locations receiving full sun to part shade.
Conclusion
Veronica prostrata ‘Buttercup’ offers gardeners a highly effective, low-maintenance ground cover highlighted by its unique golden foliage and cheerful lavender-blue blooms. This Prostrate speedwell establishes easily and spreads reliably to fill spaces effectively without demanding significant upkeep. Check your local USDA hardiness zone compatibility and ensure superb drainage before planning your planting season for this stellar perennial.
Companion Planting
When integrating Veronica prostrata ‘Buttercup’ into your garden design, select partners that enjoy similar sun exposure and soil drainage requirements. Good companions include creeping sedums, especially those with dark foliage, to accentuate the golden tones of the speedwell. Low-growing ornamental grasses that prefer lean soil, such as certain Fescues, also pair well by providing textural contrast to the matted habit of Prostrate speedwell. Avoid moisture-loving plants, as heavy watering required by companions can negatively impact the drainage needs of Veronica prostrata ‘Buttercup’.
Seasonal Care Calendar
Spring is the ideal time for assessing any winter damage and initiating clean-up, though this perennial is extremely resilient. If you plan mass plantings, spring is the best time to establish new divisions or plants. Summer care involves monitoring moisture levels, especially during dry spells, and ensuring adequate drainage during heavy rains; shearing lightly after the June-July bloom promotes a tidier look. In fall and winter, ‘Buttercup’ requires minimal attention, as its foliage often retains decent color, setting the stage for the next growing season.
