A tall erect perennial with slender spires of two-tone pink flowers from June to September above whorls of narrow pointed deep-green leaves. Height 1.2m. Spread 50cm. Full sun/partial shade, moist, well drained soil. Hardy.
Veronicastrum virginicum ‘Erica’ is a tall, elegant perennial reaching up to 1.2m, with slender spires of two-tone pink flowers from June to September. The blooms rise gracefully above whorls of narrow, deep-green leaves, creating a striking vertical accent in borders. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade and is hardy, making it an excellent choice for long-lasting summer colour.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The ideal time to plant Veronicastrum virginicum ‘Erica’ is in spring when the soil is warming, allowing roots to establish before the main flowering season.
Autumn: Alternatively, plant in early autumn so the root system can settle before winter dormancy, encouraging strong growth the following year.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Choose a location where Veronicastrum virginicum ‘Erica’ will receive full sun or partial shade. At least six hours of light daily promotes tall, sturdy stems and abundant blooms.
Soil: Ensure the soil is moist yet well-drained. Adding compost or organic matter will improve structure and nutrient content, providing the perfect growing conditions.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the plant’s root ball to give Veronicastrum virginicum ‘Erica’ room to spread its roots.
Soil Preparation: Mix organic matter into the soil to boost fertility and improve drainage.
Positioning: Place the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil, then gently backfill and firm the soil to remove air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to help the soil settle and encourage quick root establishment.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Veronicastrum virginicum ‘Erica’ prefers evenly moist conditions, especially during flowering.
Dormant Season: Reduce watering significantly in winter, only adding water if the soil becomes dry.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to promote vigorous new growth.
Mid-Summer: Feed again lightly during mid-summer to maintain strong flowering and overall plant health.
Pruning
Deadheading: Remove faded flower spikes to encourage continued blooming and maintain a neat appearance.
Autumn Cutback: After flowering ends in late autumn, cut Veronicastrum virginicum ‘Erica’ back to ground level to prepare it for dormancy.
Mulching
Spring: Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and stabilise soil temperature.
Winter: A thicker mulch layer helps protect roots from frost damage.
Supporting the Plant
As Veronicastrum virginicum ‘Erica’ can grow tall, staking may be necessary in exposed areas to prevent stems from bending or breaking.
Final Tips
Veronicastrum virginicum ‘Erica’ is a striking, low-maintenance perennial that delivers months of vertical interest in mixed borders. With the right sunlight, soil, and watering routine, it will reward you with elegant flower spires and healthy foliage year after year.
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