‘Diggers Speedwell’
Veronica perfoliata (syn Derwentia perfoliata) or ‘Diggers Speedwell’ as it is commonly called, is an attractive low growing clump forming shrub. Attractive foliage along with small lilac blue to purple flowers in spring.
This prostrate plant looks a lot like a very low growing eucalyptus and is often mistaken for such. It is a plant that will grow well beneath Eucalypts and much of its landscaping value comes from this characteristic.
It requires part shade, and a cool moist root run to perform well, but is a tough plant once established. Blue green foliage held tight to the stems is a year round attraction.
Care and Cultivation
The old flower heads can be removed to help promote a bushy habit.
Veronica perfoliata can be grown in a pot or container, and it makes a good ground cover plant in a native style garden. Although it does not require a lot of fertilizer, you can use a low phosphorus slow release native plant in poorer soils.
Pruning Veronica perfoliata.
This is a plant that can be cut back after flowering to produce a neater more compact growth habit.
Summary
- Full Sun to Dappled Shade
- Drought tolerant once established.
- Prune back lightly after flowering to promote a more bushy habit.
- Fertiliser not generally required, use a slow release, low phosphate type in poor soils.
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