Also known as Culver's Root · 520 saves
Veronicastrum
Veronicastrum, the genus most gardeners know as culver's root. We track 6 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 6 most-saved Veronicastrum varieties
Species of Veronicastrum
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Veronicastrum in Sow
Save the Veronicastrum you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Veronicastrum
Whats common across all Veronicastrum varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 6 most-grown of them.
The Veronicastrum year
- DivideMarch and September100% of varieties
Divide large clumps every 3-5 years in spring or early fall.
- StakeMay and June83% of varieties
Stake tall plants in exposed or windy sites before they reach full height
- PruneFebruary and April67% of varieties
Perform the 'Chelsea Chop' (cut back by 1/3) for bushier plants and delayed bloom.
- Spring CleanupFebruary and March50% of varieties
Cut back old, dead stems to the ground before new growth emerges.
- PlantMarch and September33% of varieties
Plant new container stock or divisions in spring or early fall.
- DeadheadJuly and August33% of varieties
Remove spent flower spikes to tidy the plant after bloom
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- Mulch annually to retain moisture and control weeds
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring
- Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter
- Refrain from fertilizing during dormancy
- Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot ❌
What goes wrong with Veronicastrum
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Spider mites | Fine webbing and speckled leaves | Increase humidity and apply insecticidal soap |
| Powdery mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply fungicide if necessary |
| Root rot | Wilting and blackened roots | Reduce watering and ensure well-drained soil |
| Powdery Mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply fungicide |
Making more Veronicastrum
division
- Dig up mature plants in early spring or fall.
- Gently separate clumps into smaller sections, each with roots.
- Replant divisions immediately at the same depth.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
cuttings
- Take basal cuttings in early summer.
- Remove lower leaves and dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist, well-draining soil or potting mix.
- Keep in bright, indirect light and maintain humidity for 6 weeks.
Veronicastrum questions
How many types of Veronicastrum are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 6 distinct Veronicastrum varieties. The most popular — ranked by 520 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Veronicastrum grow in?
Across its varieties, Veronicastrum covers USDA Zones 4–8. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Veronicastrum bloom?
Most Veronicastrum varieties bloom in mid-summer. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Veronicastrum should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.