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.
‘Foxy Lady’ is an erect, clump-forming speedwell that features bicolored flower spikes packed with bright fuschia pink and white flowers. It is a sport of Veronica ‘Red Fox’. Narrow, lance-shaped, toothed, deep green leaves (to 3” long) form a foliage mound to 8” tall. In late June, flowering spikes rise above the foliage mound to 12-15” tall featuring tapered-at-the-top, spike-like, terminal racemes densely packed with bi-colored flowers. U.S. Plant Patent PP20,679 was issued on January 26, 2010.
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.