Purple Speedwell
Veronica spicata 'Purpleicious'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
18 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe and Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Veronica spicata, or spiked speedwell, is an upright, clump-forming perennial that produces dense, vertical spikes of small, star-shaped flowers above lance-shaped, green foliage. 'Purpleicious' is noted for its compact habit and long-lasting, rich violet-purple flower spikes that rebloom well if deadheaded.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sunny spot with well-draining soil for planting.
- Tuck seeds 1/4 inch deep and water gently to settle the soil.
- Maintain consistent moisture during germination, which takes 2-3 weeks.
- Transplant seedlings when they are 2 inches tall into their permanent location.
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune after flowering to encourage bushy growth and remove dead stems.
Pro Tip
Use organic compost to enrich soil and promote vibrant flowering.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and health
- Apply organic fertilizer in early spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall to protect winter buds
- Refrain from using chemical pesticides indiscriminately
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| 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
Purple Speedwell questions
What zones can Purple Speedwell grow in?
Purple 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 Purple Speedwell deer resistant?
Yes — Purple Speedwell is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Purple Speedwell bloom?
Purple Speedwell typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Purple Speedwell need full sun?
Purple Speedwell does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Purple Speedwell drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Purple Speedwell handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Veronica to compare
Moody Blues Sky Blue Veronica
Veronica spicata 'Moody Blues Sky Blue'
Royal Candles Speedwell
Veronica spicata 'Royal Candles'
Lavender Lightsaber Speedwell
Veronica spicata 'Lavender Lightsaber'
Royal Candles Spike Speedwell
Veronica spicata 'Glory'
Longifolia Veronica Eveline
Veronica longifolia 'Eveline'
Wizard of Ahhs Speedwell
Veronica spicata 'Wizard Of Ahhs'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Purple 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.
