Veronica 'Purpleicious' is a vigorous upright perennial producing vivid purple flower spikes from early to mid summer. This variety boasts compact foliage and long blooming floral columns that attract pollinators while providing strong vertical interest. Its mildew resistant foliage makes it a reliable feature in sunny garden beds and borders.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Early to mid summer
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained average to moderately fertile soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; water regularly during dry periods
Deer Resistance: Deer and rabbit resistant due to bitter foliage
Native Status
Veronica 'Purpleicious' is a cultivar of Veronica spicata, a species native to Europe and western Asia. While not native to North America, it is well adapted to similar temperate growing conditions and supports pollinator activity.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Draws native bumblebees, sweat bees, and honeybees to its nectar rich spires during summer bloom.
Butterflies
- Attracts swallowtails and skippers that feed from the elongated flower heads.
Beneficial Insects
- Supports hoverflies and parasitic wasps that prey on garden pests such as aphids and caterpillars.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Plant 12 - 18 in apart to form tight vertical accents with excellent airflow.
Landscape Placement:
- Use in perennial borders, pollinator gardens, and along pathways where upright blooms offer definition and color contrast.
Companion Plants
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' - Delicate yellow flowers create a soft contrast that enhances Veronica's color intensity.
- Lavandula angustifolia 'Munstead' - Aromatic silver foliage and short purple blooms harmonize with Veronica’s vertical display.
- Achillea millefolium 'Paprika' - Bright red umbels add fiery contrast and attract beneficial insects to the shared border.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' - Rich purple spikes echo the Veronica’s tones while offering complementary bloom timing and form.
- Stachys byzantina (Lambs Ear) - Velvety silver foliage contrasts in texture and shape while thriving in similar conditions.