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filler · easy · mid

Veronica

Veronica spicata · aka speedwell, spiked speedwell

Veronica, or speedwell, sends up slender, tapering spires densely packed with tiny star-shaped flowers in purple, blue, pink or white. Florists use these graceful spikes as a line-and-filler flower that adds vertical movement, colour and a natural, garden-grown feel. The blooms open gradually from the base upward, giving a long display and useful height. Airy yet structural, veronica is a summer favourite for loose, romantic arrangements.

At a glance
FamilyPlantaginaceae
OriginEurope and Asia
Peak seasonJune, July, August
AvailabilityMay, June, July, August, September
Stem length40–70 cm
Vase life6–10 days
Colorspurple, blue, pink, white
Price tiermid
Conditioning

Cut stems on an angle and strip the lower leaves before conditioning in cool water with flower food. Let the spikes hydrate for several hours; veronica is a thirsty drinker, so keep vases topped up. Remove faded lower florets to keep the spike looking fresh. Keep cool and away from drafts to slow petal drop.

Care in the vase
  • Strip lower foliage before conditioning
  • Keep water topped up — a thirsty stem
  • Remove spent lower florets
  • Use flower food in clean water
  • Keep cool to extend the display
Design role & symbolism
Symbolismfidelity, loyalty, lasting love
Occasionswedding, summer wedding, tall arrangements, garden-style, everyday
line-flowerfillerspikysummergarden-styletall
Colors
Purple Flowers
Varieties2

2 named veronica (speedwell) cultivars from the Lacy Bird master catalogue — each a distinct commercial variety.

✦ Acanta catalog

Entries marked ✦ come from the Acanta master catalogue — the shared database of cut flowers, forms, colours and named varieties that florists and studios build on. The rest are our editorial genus reference. What is Acanta →

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Frequently asked questions

When is Veronica in season?

Veronica peaks in June, July, August, and florists can usually source it May, June, July, August, September. Availability shifts by region and greenhouse supply.

How long does Veronica last in a vase?

Expect 6–10 days with proper conditioning — a clean vase, fresh water every couple of days, flower food, and a cool spot away from ripening fruit and direct heat.

What can I use instead of Veronica?

Good substitutes for Veronica include Delphinium, Larkspur, Snapdragon, Statice, Monkshood. Match on look, colour and season — our substitute finder ranks the closest alternatives.

What does Veronica symbolise?

Veronica is associated with fidelity, loyalty, lasting love.

How do you care for cut Veronica?

Strip lower foliage before conditioning

Related flowers

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