Garden speedwell and Spiked speedwell are often considered for the same spot in the garden (flowers, pollinator friendly). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Veronica longifolia 90 cm × 45 cm after 10 years
An upright, clump-forming perennial that carries long, slender lilac-blue spikes above narrow toothed leaves in summer; there are white and pink…
Veronica spicata 50 cm × 40 cm after 10 years
A slender perennial with upright spikes of blue flowers (pink or white in some cultivars) that draw bees and butterflies for weeks in summer. Give…
Garden speedwell grows larger: 90 cm × 45 cm after ten years, against 50 cm × 40 cm for Spiked speedwell.
Spiked speedwell is hardier: down to -40 °C, against -34 °C for Garden speedwell.
Spiked speedwell tolerates drought better than Garden speedwell.
Spiked speedwell is cheaper: about €5.90 at the size usually planted, against about €8.90 for Garden speedwell.
|
Feature
|
Garden speedwell
|
Spiked speedwell
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Perennial | Perennial |
| Size after 10 years | 90 cm × 45 cm | 50 cm × 40 cm |
| Ultimate size | 0.6–1.2 m × 30–60 cm | 30–90 cm × 30–75 cm |
| Growth rate | no data | Medium |
| Light | Full sun, Part shade | Full sun |
| Soil | Average garden soil | Average garden soil, Sandy, Calcareous |
| Hardiness | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) | down to -40 °C (USDA 3, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Flowering | June–September, blue, purple, white, pink | June–September, blue, purple, pink, white |
| Water need | Medium | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | Low | Medium |
| Maintenance | Low | Low |
| Planting distance | 40 cm | 35 cm |
| For children | no data | Non-toxic (uncertain) |
| Typical price | approx. €8.90 | approx. €5.90 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 13, 2026
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