First Lady Speedwell
Veronica spicata 'First Lady'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
18 inches
Width
15 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
A clump-forming herbaceous perennial native to Europe and temperate Asia, prized for its dense, upright spikes of star-shaped flowers. This cultivar is distinguished by its elegant, dense spikes of pure white flowers that bloom over a long period in summer. It has a compact, upright habit.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to keep humidity high during rooting.
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist, especially in dry periods.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during active growth.
- Prune lightly after flowering to promote bushiness and remove dead stems.
- Dividing plants in early spring or fall helps maintain vigor and size.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and provide full sun for vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
- Prune after flowering to shape the plant
- Fertilize monthly during growing season 🌱
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don't neglect pruning after flowering
- Avoid planting in poorly drained soils ❌
- Refrain from excessive fertilizing which can reduce flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
First Lady Speedwell questions
What zones can First Lady Speedwell grow in?
First Lady Speedwell is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is First Lady Speedwell deer resistant?
Yes — First Lady Speedwell is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does First Lady Speedwell bloom?
First Lady Speedwell typically blooms in summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does First Lady Speedwell need full sun?
First Lady Speedwell does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is First Lady Speedwell drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), First Lady Speedwell handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Purple Speedwell
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Veronica longifolia 'Eveline'
Keep exploring
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow First Lady Speedwell with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
