Veronicastrum virginicum is a tall stately native perennial with candelabra like spires of white to pale lavender flowers. Its vertical form and elegant blooms provide strong structure in naturalistic and pollinator plantings from midsummer into fall.
Height & Spread: 48 - 72 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Mid to late summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part sun
Soil Preference: Moist, rich, well drained soils
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture
Deer Resistance: Generally unbothered by deer
Native Status
Native to eastern and central North America, found in meadows, moist prairies, and open woods.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Frequented by Swallowtails and other large species for its abundant nectar.
Bees
- Highly attractive to long tongued bees, including bumblebees and digger bees.
Hummingbirds
- Occasional visitors, especially in mixed perennial beds with tubular flower companions.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 24 - 36 in apart for full clump development and upright form.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for rain gardens, prairie plantings, naturalized areas, and back borders. Excellent in combination with grasses and other tall natives.
Companion Plants
- Eutrochium maculatum (Joe Pye Weed) - Provides a strong native pairing for midsummer bloom and pollinator support.
- Rudbeckia laciniata (Cutleaf Coneflower) - Offers a bright counterpoint in size and form.
- Sporobolus heterolepis (Prairie Dropseed) - Adds fine textured grass movement and a fragrant base layer.
- Liatris pycnostachya (Blazing Star) - Extends the vertical theme with contrasting flower spikes.
- Amsonia tabernaemontana (Blue Star) - Offers soft foliage and early bloom contrast.