Culture
Best grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun. Best performance occurs with consistent, regular moisture with sharp soil drainage (particularly in winter). Apply an organic mulch to help regulate soil moisture. Tolerates light shade. Remove spent flower spikes to encourage additional bloom. Plants may be cut back to basal growth after flowering.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Veronica is a genus of about 250 species of annuals, perennials and some sub-shrubs mainly from Europe.
Genus name honors Saint Veronica who reportedly gave a handkerchief to Jesus so he could wipe sweat from his face on the way to Calvary, with some genus plants having markings that resemble the markings on the sacred handkerchief.
'Goodness Grows' is an erect, bushy, clump-forming hybrid veronica which typically grows to only 10-12" tall. It was discovered as a chance seedling at Goodness Grows Nursery in Lexington, Georgia. Probably a hybrid of V. alpina 'Alba' and V. spicata, with its compact size derived from the former and its tall, erect flower spikes from the latter. Dense, vertical, tapered-at-the-top, deep blue flower spikes (racemes to 6" long) rise well above the foliage in late spring to mid-summer. If promptly deadheaded, plants may continue blooming throughout the summer into early fall. Narrow, lance-shaped, medium green leaves (to 2" long).
Problems
No serious insect or disease problems. Root rot may occur in wet, poorly-drained soils. Deer and rabbits tend to avoid this plant.
Uses
Rock gardens, foundations, border fronts and other sunny spots in the landscape. Good edging plant. Best grown in groups or massed. Containers.