Common Name: Not widely standardized, but often grouped under “Speedwell” or “Rock Speedwell” varieties
Seed Treatment:
• Cold stratification is recommended to break dormancy and improve germination.
• Mix seeds with moist sand or vermiculite, place in a sealed plastic bag, and refrigerate at 35–40°F (1–4°C) for 30 days.
• Alternatively, sow outdoors in late fall for natural stratification.
When to Sow:
• Indoors: Start 6–8 weeks before last frost after cold stratification.
• Outdoors: Sow in early spring or late fall.
Light Requirements:
• Prefers full sun
• Can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates
Soil Requirements:
• Grows best in well-draining soil
• Tolerates rocky, sandy, or alpine-type soils
• pH range: 6.0–7.5
Sowing Instructions:
• Surface sow – seeds are tiny and require light to germinate
• Gently press into the surface of pre-moistened soil or seed-starting mix
• Maintain temperature at 60–70°F (15–21°C)
• Germination typically occurs in 14–30 days
Watering:
• Keep soil consistently moist during germination
• Once established, water moderately; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings
Spacing:
• Thin or transplant seedlings to 8–12 inches (20–30 cm) apart
Growing Tips:
• Veronica porphyriana produces compact mounds of green foliage with violet to blue flower spikes in summer
• Excellent for rock gardens, alpine beds, borders, or containers
• Deadheading can extend bloom time
• Hardy in USDA Zones 4–9 depending on growing conditions
• Attracts pollinators and is deer-resistant