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Growth Rate
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- Growth Rate: Moderate; typically grows about 12 to 18 inches per year.
- Mature Height: Can reach heights of about 24 to 36 inches.
- Mature Spread: Generally spreads about 12 to 18 inches wide.
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Colorful leaves
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Flowering
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Yes |
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Bloom Color
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Disease resistant
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Yes |
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Cold Tolerant
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Yes |
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Heat Tolerant
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Yes |
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Drought Tolerant
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No |
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Deer Resistant
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Yes |
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Edible
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No |
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Wildlife Attraction
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Attracts butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects, making it a great addition to pollinator-friendly gardens. |
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Self-pollinating
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Seasonality
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- Season of Interest: Late spring to summer.
- Winter Interest: Foliage may persist through winter, adding structure to the garden.
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Ideal For
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Elevate your garden’s beauty with the stunning Veronica spicata 'Purplegum Candles'! |
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Leaf Description
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- Leaves: Lance-shaped, dark green leaves that form a lush base for the flowering spikes.
- Texture: The leaves are slightly serrated, adding visual interest and texture to the plant.
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Flower Description
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- Flowering Period: Blooms from late spring to early summer.
- Flower Description: Features impressive spikes of rich purple flowers that create a striking display and attract attention.
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Planting Instructions
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- Best Time to Plant: Spring or early fall, when temperatures are mild.
- Planting Method: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball. Place the plant in the hole, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly.
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Pruning & Maintenance
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Deadhead spent flowers to encourage additional blooming. Cut back the foliage in late fall or early spring for healthy new growth. |
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Water Needs
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Water regularly during the growing season. Ensure the soil is kept evenly moist, especially during dry spells. |
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Light Needs
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Prefers full sun, thriving with at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. |
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Harvesting
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Not applicable; primarily ornamenta |
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Fertilizing
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Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support vigorous growth and blooming. |
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Additional Care Tips
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- Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally resistant to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance option.
- Mulching: Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
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Pollination
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Attracts various pollinators; primarily self-pollinating. |
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Companion Plants
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– Salvia nemorosa – similar spiky blooms and growing conditions; extends bloom season
– Coreopsis – bright yellow flowers create a striking contrast with Veronica’s rich purple
– Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) – heat- and drought-tolerant; adds warm, bold colors
– Echinacea purpurea (Coneflower) – complementary purple tones and pollinator-friendly
– Nepeta (Catmint) – soft, mounding habit and long bloom time pair well
– Achillea (Yarrow) – feathery foliage and flat blooms add texture contrast
– Sedum – succulent foliage and late-season blooms thrive in the same dry, sunny locations
– Penstemon – tubular flowers in complementary colors for vertical interest
– Lavandula (Lavender) – aromatic, sun-loving perennial that harmonizes well in color and form |
