How big does Large speedwell grow?

About 40 cm × 40 cm after ten years (height × width). Its ultimate size is 25–60 cm × 25–45 cm.

What soil does Large speedwell grow in?

It tolerates these soils: average garden soil, sandy, calcareous.

Is Large speedwell hardy?

Hardy down to -34 °C (USDA zone 4, RHS H7). It gets through winter in every part of the country.

How much water does Large speedwell need?

Water need: medium. Drought tolerance: high.

Large speedwell

Veronica teucrium

Large speedwell (Veronica teucrium) is a perennial that reaches 40 cm × 40 cm after ten years. Light: full sun, part shade. Hardy down to -34 °C. Drought tolerance: high. Sold in local shops from about €4.90.

Illustration of Large speedwell — An illustration of the typical shape of the mature plant, not a photo.

What it's good for, and what it isn't

A low, bushy perennial that is almost hidden under spikes of vivid gentian-blue flowers in May and June, to the delight of bees and butterflies. It suits sunny border edges, rock gardens and banks, is undemanding and copes well with drought and winter cold. Cut it back by half after flowering to keep it compact and stop it seeding around.

Watch out for

No serious pests or diseases. The roots can rot in waterlogged, heavy soil, and powdery or downy mildew may appear in humid, crowded spots. The stems sprawl after flowering unless cut back.

Key facts

Light: Full sun, Part shade
Water need: Medium
Care: Low
Size after 10 years: 40 cm × 40 cm
Hardiness: down to -34 °C
Foliage: Deciduous
Flowering: J F M A M J J A S O N D May–July, blue

Group	Perennial
Light	Full sun, Part shade
Size after 10 years	40 cm × 40 cm
Ultimate size	25–60 cm × 25–45 cm
Hardiness	down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7)
Soil	Average garden soil, Sandy, Calcareous
Foliage	Deciduous
Flowering	May–July, blue
Water need	Medium
Drought tolerance	High
Maintenance	Low
Root aggressiveness	Low
Suckering	no data
Spreading	Low
Distance from buildings	no data
Distance from paving	no data
Litter	not typical
Planting distance	30 cm
For dogs	no data
For cats	no data
For children	Non-toxic (uncertain)
Typical price	from about €4.90

Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor.

Sizes and prices available

The same plant is sold as a small pot and as a specimen several metres tall, and the price follows. Prices are rounded and for guidance only.

Size	Typical price
size not stated	approx. €4.90

Frequently asked questions

Data updated: October 13, 2026 · How our data is made

Appears in these lists

Ground cover plants Perennials for part shade Perennials for full sun Drought-tolerant plants Drought-tolerant perennials Drought-tolerant plants for sandy soil Perennials for pollinators Plants for containers Low-maintenance perennials Rock garden plants

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