Garden Speedwell 'Marietta'

Veronica longifolia 'Marietta' is a vibrant and modern cultivar of the long-leaf speedwell, prized for its exceptionally dark, violet-blue flower spikes. Unlike many older varieties that can be sprawling or untidy, 'Marietta' has a compact, upright habit, reaching about 50-60cm in height. The flowers are densely packed on the spikes and bloom for a long period throughout the summer, especially if deadheaded regularly. The foliage is a deep, healthy green and provides a solid base for the vivid blooms. In the UK, it is a very easy-to-grow perennial that is fully hardy and adaptable to various soil types, though it prefers a moist but well-drained spot in full sun. It is highly attractive to butterflies and bees, making it a great choice for pollinator gardens. Because of its size and neatness, it is perfect for the middle of a sunny border or for inclusion in a container garden.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Moist but well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug.