Veronicastrum virginicum 'Queen of Diamonds'
Veronicastrum virginicum 'Queen of Diamonds' is a striking native perennial with tall upright flower spikes covered in soft pink blooms above whorled green foliage. Its strong architectural form adds height and structure to the garden while providing a long lasting display that supports pollinators throughout the summer.
Height & Spread: 48 - 60 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Mid to late summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist rich well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but adapts once established
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This cultivar is a selected form of Veronicastrum virginicum, a species native to eastern and central North America. It retains the ecological value of the native species while offering improved flower color and garden performance.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Attracts Swallowtails, Monarchs, and other nectar seeking butterflies which visit the tall flower spikes throughout the summer bloom period.
Bees
- Supports native bees and bumblebees which gather nectar and pollen from the many small flowers along each spike.
Birds
- Provides late season seed resources for songbirds while its upright structure offers additional garden habitat.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 24 - 36 in apart to accommodate its tall upright growth habit and allow the flower spikes to display fully.
Landscape Placement
- Excellent for native plantings, rain gardens, meadow style borders, and back of border placements where its height creates vertical interest.
Companion Plants
- Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' (Purple Coneflower) - Adds bold summer flowers and complements the vertical form with a contrasting bloom shape.
- Pycnanthemum muticum (Mountain Mint) - Provides silvery foliage and strong pollinator value while filling the space around taller stems.
- Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah' (Switchgrass) - Adds fine texture and seasonal color that pairs well with the upright flower spikes.
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' (Black Eyed Susan) - Brings bright golden blooms that create contrast during the same summer season.
- Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Weed) - Introduces vivid orange flowers and additional support for butterflies in sunny native plantings.