Veronicastrum virginicum 'Apollo'
Veronicastrum virginicum 'Apollo' is a compact selection of Culver’s Root featuring tall upright flower spikes of soft pink blooms above whorled green foliage. Its refined vertical form adds structure to perennial borders while providing a long lasting source of nectar for pollinators throughout the summer.
Height & Spread: 36 - 48 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist rich well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This species is native to eastern and central North America where it naturally occurs in moist meadows, prairies, and open woodlands. 'Apollo' is a cultivated selection chosen for its compact habit and strong garden performance while retaining the ecological value of the native species.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Attracts Swallowtails, Painted Ladies, and other nectar seeking butterflies which visit the tall flower spikes throughout the summer.
Bees
- Supports native bees, bumblebees, and honeybees which gather nectar and pollen from the numerous small flowers.
Birds
- Provides seeds later in the season which can be used by songbirds while adding vertical habitat within perennial plantings.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 24 - 36 in apart to allow the upright stems and whorled foliage to develop without overcrowding.
Landscape Placement
- Well suited for native plantings, meadow gardens, rain gardens, and mixed borders where its vertical flower spikes add height and seasonal interest.
Companion Plants
- Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Provides complementary summer blooms and strong pollinator value alongside the upright flower spikes.
- Panicum virgatum 'Northwind' (Switchgrass) - Adds vertical structure and fine textured foliage that pairs well with Veronicastrum’s form.
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' (Black Eyed Susan) - Brings bright golden flowers that create a strong color contrast during summer.
- Pycnanthemum muticum (Clustered Mountain Mint) - Offers aromatic foliage and abundant blooms that support a wide range of pollinators.
- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Adds native grass texture and warm seasonal color to complement the tall flower stems.