Veronica 'Goodness Grows'
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SPIKE SPEEDWELL
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Pronounced: ve-RO-ni-ka
GROWING GUIDE
Geographical Origin:
Garden.
Plant Group:
Perennial.
Attributes
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: 1-7, 14-17.
USDA zones: 3-8.
Heat zones: 8-1.
Mature size:
Height: 12-15 inches (30-40 cm).
Width: 18 inches (45 cm).
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Flowering attributes: Racemes of star-shaped dark blue flowers.
Leaf attributes: Lance-shaped to linear, hairy leaves.
Growth habit: Mat forming.
Light: Full sun to partial shade.
Soil: Humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil is best. Drought tolerant once established.
Feeding: Side dress with compost or manure, and a complete organic fertilizer in spring.
Propagation Methods: Sow seed at 68ºf (20°C). Barely cover as they needs light to germinate. Germinates in less than two weeks. | Divide in spring or fall.
Pruning Methods: Deadhead to promote a long bloom season. Cut back plants to basal foliage around mid-autumn.
Pests, Diseases or Other Problems: Root rot may be a problem, in our notorious Pacific Northwest wet winters, if soil is not well-drained. Powdery mildew is reported to be a possible problem. It has not been a problem on my own plants.
Rainy Side Notes
Veronica 'Goodness Grows' is most likely a hybrid of V. alpina 'Alba' and V. spicata. It was discovered as a seedling growing in Goodness Grows Nursery in Lexington, Georgia. Although V. 'Goodness Grows' has creeping roots, it is not invasive, forming mats that are great for the front of the border. It blooms longer than all the veronicas, which makes it an excellent container plant.
Debra Teachout-Teashon
Photographed in author's garden.
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