Large speedwell (Veronica austriaca)

Overview

Veronica austriaca, frequently known as Large speedwell, is a highly valued herbaceous perennial celebrated for its reliable spring color and relatively fuss-free cultivation. This species forms a neat, compact mound of foliage, setting it apart as an excellent choice for definition in mixed borders and rock gardens. Its upright to sprawling stems become adorned with striking racemes of intense blue flowers, creating a substantial visual impact during the late spring season.

This native of Europe and western Asia offers gardeners low-maintenance beauty, fitting perfectly into contemporary landscape designs where ease of care is paramount. The foliage, clad with toothed oblong green leaves, provides a solid green backdrop when the showy flowers of the Large speedwell subside. Growing to a respectable height of 2 to 3 feet, Veronica austriaca adds necessary vertical accent without becoming overwhelmingly large for most garden settings.

Gardeners appreciate the resilience of Veronica austriaca, as it exhibits no serious disease or pest issues, making it a trustworthy addition to perennial beds. For those seeking dependable texture and vibrant blue hues in early summer, Large speedwell proves to be a sound horticultural investment, requiring only average soil conditions and regular moisture to thrive year after year.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Plantaginaceae
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Native Range: Europe, western Asia
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-8
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 2-3 ft
  • Spread: 1.5-2 ft
• Bloom Time: May to June
• Bloom Description: Blue
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Low

How to Grow

Plant Large speedwell in the spring or fall, ensuring it settles into average, medium soil that drains well. Success with Veronica austriaca hinges on avoiding overly wet or soggy conditions, as this plant strongly prefers well-drained media. While it tolerates part shade, achieving the densest bloom color generally requires full sun exposure, especially in cooler climates.

Watering should be consistent, maintaining medium moisture levels, especially during establishment and hot summer periods. Fertilization is rarely necessary unless the soil is extremely poor; typically, annual incorporation of compost at planting time suffices. Maintenance for Veronica austriaca is minimal, contributing to its low-maintenance rating.

A crucial element of care involves post-bloom grooming. Plants may be trimmed back moderately after the initial flowering flush in May to June. This trimming action helps revitalize the clump, encouraging new, neater foliage growth, and may result in sparse, intermittent reblooming extending into late summer or early fall.

Landscape Uses

Veronica austriaca excels when placed along border fronts, where its 2-3 foot stature provides a sturdy middle layer without obscuring shorter companion plants. Its compact, clumping habit makes it an ideal candidate for rock gardens, where its vibrant blue flowers contrast beautifully against gray stone or gravel mulch. Consider mass plantings for greater impact, allowing drifts of Large speedwell to flow naturally through the perennial border.

This perennial mixes well with plants that share similar cultural needs—medium moisture and tolerance for sun to light shade. Pair Veronica austriaca with late-blooming perennials like Coreopsis or Rudbeckia to ensure continuous color once the speedwell finishes its main season. In cottage garden settings, intersperse it among spire-like flowers such as Salvia or Lupine for textural diversity.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy

Noteworthy Characteristics

Veronica austriaca, commonly called saw-leaved speedwell, Austrian speedwell or Hungarian speedwell, is a compact, mound-forming plant with upright to sprawling stems. It is native to Europe and eastern Asia, featuring axillary racemes of bright blue flowers in spring on mounding plants clad with toothed oblong green leaves. The genus name honors Saint Veronica, and the specific epithet notes that Austria lies within its native range.

Tolerances

• Rabbit
• Deer

Potential Problems

Veronica austriaca is remarkably pest-free and generally handles most common garden diseases without issue, making it a fantastic choice for low-spray landscapes. Gardeners need primarily to focus on cultural requirements, especially drainage. The main risk involves root rot or fungal issues if the plant sits in heavy, poorly drained soil or is consistently overwatered. Ensure adequate space around plants for air circulation, though susceptibility remains low.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Large speedwell suitable for?

Veronica austriaca is suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 8, offering reliable perennial performance across these ranges.

How large does Large speedwell grow?

This species typically achieves a mature height between 2 and 3 feet, with a spread ranging from 1.5 to 2 feet wide.

What sun exposure does Veronica austriaca need?

For best results, plant Large speedwell where it will receive full sun to part shade; excessive deep shade can reduce flowering.

When does Large speedwell bloom?

The primary bloom time for Veronica austriaca is typically from May through June, showcasing beautiful blue flowers.

Conclusion

The Large speedwell (Veronica austriaca) brings reliable, showy blue coloration to the garden early in the season with minimal effort required from the gardener. Its low maintenance profile and excellent deer and rabbit resistance make it a highly practical choice for both formal beds and naturalized areas. Before planting, confirm your site offers medium moisture soil and adequate drainage to ensure the long-term success of your Veronica austriaca.

Companion Planting

Companion plants for Veronica austriaca should enjoy similar growing conditions: medium moisture, good drainage, and a preference for full sun or light dappled shade. Consider pairing it with silver-leaved Lamb’s Ears (Stachys byzantina) to complement the bright blue flowers with a soft, contrasting texture. Plants that bloom later in the summer, such as various Daylilies (Hemerocallis) or ornamental grasses, work well as fill-ins once the Large speedwell finishes its spring performance.

Design Ideas: Cottage and Informal Borders

While Veronica austriaca is effective in structured settings, it truly shines in informal or cottage garden designs. Its slightly sprawling habit allows it to softly blend the lines between different plant masses. Use it to anchor the middle section of a border, allowing shorter edging plants to naturally spill toward its base. In slightly wilder areas, allow it to naturalize slightly, utilizing its dependable spring display as a cheerful transition from spring bulb season into summer growth.