Magic Show® Ever After Spike Speedwell

With its long-lasting flower spikes, Magic Show® Ever After Spike Speedwell is ideal for extending the flowering season. Displaying tall purple blooms that can be up to one foot in length, this perennial veronica blooms continuously from early summer into midseason. Its one of the longest-blooming speedwell varieties you can plant, bringing a cheerful display to borders or mixed perennial beds. Growing to only 16 inches high, it is well suited to smaller spots and being pollinator-friendly will attract all manner of bees and butterflies to the garden. The Magic Show® Ever After Spike Speedwell is tolerant to both deer and salty air, making it perfect for both rural and seaside locations alike. Originating from Europe and Asia, this speedwell is hardy and can be grown in zones 4 through 8. With its compact and mound-forming habit, Ever After is ideally suited for growing along a path or border, but is equally happy in a container. Magic Show® Ever After Spike Speedwell Care For the showiest blooms, this veronica is best grown in a spot where it can get around 6 hours of sun a day. It can tolerate some partial shade, although flowering may not be as impressive when grown in full sun. Although it prefers fertile and well-drained soil, this plant will tolerate most soil types. With average moisture requirements, regular watering is needed to keep this plant looking its best during the summer months. If grown in fertile soil, any extra fertilization is not usually necessary. Deadheading or shearing the flowers off once bloomed will help encourage new spikes. Come winter and once the foliage has died back, the foliage can be cut back to just above soil level. In colder areas, any pot-grown plants can be moved to an unheated greenhouse or cold frame to avoid the worst of the winter weather. Magic Show® Ever After Spike Speedwell Spacing In the right conditions, Magic Show® Ever After Spike Speedwell can grow to a height of 14-16 inches and spread of 16-20 inches. When planting this perennial as part of a group or row, a spacing of 16-20 inches is recommended. If planting in a container, choose a pot at least 10 inches wide so the roots can develop fully and the upright flower spikes can shine.