What they do
Speedwells add easy, pollinator-friendly blooms that fit into tight spaces and mixed plantings.
Plant profile
Speedwells
Genus Veronica (native spp.)
Native speedwells (Veronica species) are low-fuss wildflowers with small, nectar-friendly blooms that can fit into garden beds, edges, and even containers—an easy way to add more pollinator-friendly flowers to everyday spaces.
Plant Type
Wildflowers (herbaceous perennials) > Speedwells
Aliases
Speedwell
Native Range
Native species occur in parts of North America; choose species native to your area when possible.
Bloom window
Spring into summer (varies by species)
OVERVIEW
About This Plant
Native speedwells (Genus Veronica, native spp.) are highly adaptable wildflowers that serve an essential functional role as ground-level forage. They are valued for their low-fuss nature and clusters of small, accessible blooms, making them a reliable source of nectar for local insects, particularly when planted in clusters.
These plants are ideal for adding texture and filling empty spaces along garden edges, school walkways, or in small “pollinator pockets” where a native groundcover is needed. They perform best in bright spots with decent drainage. To maximize their benefit, plant them in groups and avoid pesticide use so visiting insects can forage safely.
Best role for pollinators
Garden edges, small beds, schoolyard plantings, and containers where you want a simple, pollinator-friendly native flower.
FAST FACTS
Quick Details
Essential stats and requirements for quick reference.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Speedwell |
| Bloom window | Spring into summer (varies by species) |
| Typical height | Low to medium (varies by species) |
| Pollinators supported | Bees, Butterflies, Flies |
| Light & moisture | Sun to part shade; average moisture with good drainage. |
| Best roles for pollinators | Garden edges, small beds, schoolyard plantings, and containers where you want a simple, pollinator-friendly native flower. |
SUMMARY
If You Remember Three Things
A quick scan of what they do, what they need, and the best first step.
What they need
A bright spot (sun to part shade), soil that drains well, and a little breathing room from weeds.
One best action
Plant a small cluster together so pollinators can find the flowers more easily.
IMPACT
Why Plant This?
Native speedwells are an approachable way to add pollinator-friendly flowers in small spaces—especially when planted in clusters and combined with other native bloomers.
Speedwells are a whole group of plants—different native species can bloom at slightly different times, which can help you stretch out flower season when you mix them with other natives.
Key Impacts
What it Supports
- Small flowers can still make a difference when you plant them in groups.
- Native plants are a simple way to support local pollinators in everyday places like yards, balconies, and school gardens.
- Speedwells can help “connect the dots” between larger plantings by filling gaps with blooms.
RECOGNITION
Identification Guide
Speedwells are best recognized by their small, often blue-to-purple flowers and tidy, leafy stems.
Leaves
Leaves are usually in opposite pairs along the stem; shape and toothiness vary by species.
Flowers
Small, four-lobed blooms often in shades of blue, violet, or white; flowers appear along the stem over time.
Fruits
Small seed capsules form after flowering; leave some to mature if you want natural reseeding.
LOCATION
Where It Grows
Native environments and the best spots to place it in your landscape.
Habitats
- Meadows and open areas
- Woodland edges
- Streamside or moist openings (species-dependent)
- Disturbed ground and sunny clearings (species-dependent)
Where it is often used
- Border edging
- Pollinator pocket garden
- Schoolyard native planting
- Container planting (with good drainage)
- Filling gaps between taller perennials
SEASONALITY
When It Blooms
Notes on bloom windows and how this plant helps pollinators across the seasons.
Bloom window
Bloom timing depends on the species, but many native speedwells flower from spring into summer.
Bloom Season Role: Fills in with small, steady blooms that pair well with showier flowers.
Seasonal benefits
- Adds blooms when many gardens are just getting started
- Pairs well with later-blooming natives to keep flowers available longer
- Works as a “connector” plant that fills spaces between larger clumps
REQUIREMENTS
What It Needs
The right mix of sun, soil, and space for healthy growth.
Sun exposure
Sun to part shade. More sun usually means more flowers, as long as soil doesn’t dry out completely.
Soil type
Well-drained soil is key. Many species handle average garden soil; avoid spots that stay soggy.
Moisture needs
Water regularly while establishing. After that, water during long dry spells, especially in containers.
Planting method
Plant in small groups for a fuller look and easier for pollinators to find. Give each plant a little space so air can move through the leaves.
Mulching tips
Use a thin layer of leaf mulch or compost around (not on top of) the crown to reduce weeds and keep soil from drying too fast.
GARDENING GUIDE
How to Grow It
Simple steps to plant, prune, and maintain healthy trees without pesticides.
Planting tips
- Pick a spot with sun to part shade and soil that drains well.
- Clear weeds and loosen the top layer of soil.
- Plant at the same depth as the pot, then firm soil gently around the roots.
- Water well after planting and keep soil lightly moist for the first few weeks.
- Add a light mulch ring to reduce weeds, keeping mulch off the plant’s base.
Seasonal care
- Weed around young plants so they aren’t crowded.
- Water during dry stretches, especially the first season and in containers.
- After flowering, you can lightly trim to tidy the plant and encourage fresh growth (optional).
- Leave some seed heads if you want natural reseeding; cut back later if you prefer a neater look.
What not to do
- Planting in a low spot that stays wet after rain
- Planting a single plant and expecting a big impact
- Spraying for “bugs” when leaves look a little chewed
Pairings
Best Pairings for Season-Long Bloom
Pairing ideas to keep pollinators fed throughout the growing season.
Early Bloom
- Wild columbine (*Aquilegia canadensis*)
- Golden alexanders (*Zizia aurea*)
Mid-Season Bloom
- Beardtongues (*Penstemon* spp.)
- Black-eyed Susan (*Rudbeckia hirta*)
Late-Season Bloom
- New England aster (*Symphyotrichum novae-angliae*)
- Goldenrods (*Solidago* spp.)
“Speedwell” can refer to different Veronica species, including non-native ornamentals. If you’re aiming for a native planting, check the label for the full scientific name and choose a species native to your region.
GLOSSARY
Key Terms
A few quick terms you might see on plant tags or garden signs:
Glossary terms are being added.
What You Can Do
Make a difference for native habitats.
Turn this knowledge into action. Whether you plant a single pot or a whole garden, you are building a vital bridge for local biodiversity.
Join the movement to restore our shared habitats.