Veronica austriaca Ionian Skies

Veronica austriaca 'Ionian Skies', also known as the Austrian speedwell, grows as a ground cover from which short but numerous spikes of sky-blue flowers emerge in spring.

A branching, perennial plant with many branches that initially lie flat but quickly straighten up, Austrian speedwell 'Ionian Skies' has small deciduous, ovate, lovely bright green leaves, with toothed edges.

In spring, it produces beautiful sky-blue flowers speckled with white in the centre, gathered in clusters at the ends 30cm (12in) tall stems.

A charming dwarf variety that can be planted in any good, well-drained, even rocky and chalky soil, in partial shade. It must be in moist soil when planted in direct sun.

It will be very useful in a partially shaded rockery or as a border plant.

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