The Story
Plant Bio
Spike Speedwell is a clump-forming perennial known for its erect, spike-like racemes of small, star-shaped flowers rising from a mat of green foliage.
A dwarf cultivar prized for its compact habit and dense spikes of bright rose-pink flowers. It is excellent for borders, rock gardens, and containers.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
8 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Medium
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe, Temperate Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Bloom period
Summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during propagation.
- Plant in well-drained soil with partial shade for optimal growth.
- Water deeply once a week, especially during dry spells.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to encourage flowering.
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and promote new growth.
Pro Tip
Use a peat-based soil mix for better root development and consistent moisture retention.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
- Prune lightly after flowering to encourage bushier growth
- Apply organic compost annually for healthy soil
- Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not fertilize in late fall to avoid encouraging weak, leggy growth
- Avoid planting in full, harsh sunlight which can scorch leaves
- Refrain from disturbing roots during late summer
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| 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
Giles Van Hees Spike Speedwell questions
What zones can Giles Van Hees Spike Speedwell grow in?
Giles Van Hees Spike 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 Giles Van Hees Spike Speedwell deer resistant?
Yes — Giles Van Hees Spike Speedwell is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Giles Van Hees Spike Speedwell bloom?
Giles Van Hees Spike 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 Giles Van Hees Spike Speedwell need full sun?
Giles Van Hees Spike Speedwell does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Giles Van Hees Spike Speedwell drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Giles Van Hees Spike 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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Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Giles Van Hees Spike 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.