Flower Library
Speedwell
Veronica spicata · Plantaginaceae (Wegerichgewächse)
With its slender, candle-like flower spikes, Speedwell adds height and lightness to any bouquet. It is one of our favourite summer cut flowers, blooming in a clear blue-violet that is hard to capture any other way. Sourced fresh in A1 quality from the Veiling Rhein-Maas, it lasts noticeably longer than the usual seven days.
- Season
- June – July – August – September
- Vase life
- 7–12 days
- Latin name
- Veronica spicata
- Colors
- Blue-violet, Blue, Pink, Magenta, White
Botanically, Speedwell belongs to the genus Veronica, the speedwells. In floristry the species Veronica spicata dominates, with its dense flower spikes tapering to a point. Besides the classic blue-violet there are cultivars in pink, magenta and pure white, so Speedwell fits well into a range of colour schemes.
At the workbench we value Speedwell above all as a vertical accent. Its upright spikes give a bouquet structure and draw the eye upward without feeling heavy. It is ideal for loosely tied summer bouquets in a naturalistic style, for cottage and meadow bouquets, and for airy arrangements.
A good sign of quality is the spike's blooming sequence: it is harvested when the lowest florets are just opening. From there the spike slowly continues to bloom upward, creating a lovely dynamic in the vase. At the auction we look for strong, straight stems and firm, well-foliaged spikes, as this is the basis for long-lasting freshness.
Speedwell combines almost limitlessly. With roses, dahlias and zinnias it forms full, summery bouquets, while with grasses, yarrow and meadow herbs it creates natural, light arrangements. The clear blue of Speedwell stands out especially beautifully against warm tones such as apricot, peach or sunny yellow.
Care
- 01Cut stems at an angle and place them immediately in fresh, clean water.
- 02Remove lower leaves so that no foliage sits in the water and rots.
- 03Speedwell is sensitive to the ripening gas ethylene: keep it away from bowls of fruit.
- 04Place it in a cool spot out of direct sun, which noticeably extends its vase life.
- 05Change the water every two to three days and recut the stems each time.
- 06Use flower food; the spike continues to bloom from the bottom upward.
Frequently asked
- How long does Speedwell last in the vase?
- With good care, Speedwell usually lasts seven to twelve days. Fresh water, a cool location and distance from fruit are important, as the flower spikes are sensitive to ethylene. Thanks to A1 quality from the Veiling Rhein-Maas, our Speedwell often reaches the upper end of this range.
- Is Speedwell toxic to cats and dogs?
- Veronica spicata is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs and is listed as safe by the ASPCA. As with any plant, eating larger amounts can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation, so pets should not nibble on it extensively.
- When is Speedwell in season?
- As a cut flower, Speedwell has its main season in summer, roughly from June to September. During this time we receive the finest, strongest stems fresh from the auction.
- What does Speedwell pair with in a bouquet?
- The slender flower spikes of Speedwell add height and structure and harmonise with roses, dahlias and zinnias as well as with grasses and meadow herbs. Its clear blue-violet looks especially lovely beside warm tones such as apricot or sunny yellow.