Veronica 'First Love Pink' is a compact long blooming speedwell producing vivid rosy pink flower spikes that rise above neat mounds of deep green foliage. This variety stands out for its exceptionally early bloom time and strong reblooming habit delivering color from early summer well into fall. Its neat habit and versatility makes it ideal for borders, pollinator beds, or containers where long color duration is desired.
Height & Spread: 12 - 18 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Early summer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained, average garden soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; water regularly during prolonged dry periods
Deer Resistance: Unpalatable to deer and rabbits
Native Status
While not native to North America, Veronica 'First Love Pink' is derived from European species commonly cultivated in gardens and performs well in temperate climates.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Attracts a wide variety of native bees including sweat bees and bumblebees drawn to the densely packed blooms.
Butterflies
- Visited frequently by small to medium butterflies such as Pearl Crescents, Skippers, and Painted Ladies seeking nectar.
Beneficial Insects
- Hoverflies and parasitic wasps are often drawn to the spikes for nectar aiding in natural pest control nearby.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Plant 12 - 18 in apart to allow airflow and showcase the vertical blooms effectively.
Landscape Placement:
- Excellent for the front of sunny perennial borders, mixed containers, or as a colorful accent in pollinator gardens where reblooming color is desired.
Companion Plants
- Achillea millefolium 'Saucy Seduction' - Clusters of rose pink blooms align in color and attract similar pollinators.
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' - Soft yellow daisy like blooms contrast beautifully with the pink flower spikes of Veronica.
- Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote' - Gray green foliage and aromatic purple blooms pair well in sunny borders with similar needs.
- Stachys byzantina (Lambs Ear) - Soft silvery foliage provides bold contrast in both color and texture at the base of the pink spikes.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Blue Hill' - Blue purple spires echo the vertical form while offering a complementary hue.