Veronicastrum virginicum Apollo

Veronicastrum virginicum 'Apollo' is a Virginia speedwell that stands out for the length of its fine, lavender-blue spikes and the imposing size of the clump, reaching 1.50 m (5ft) high. This tall perennial blooms from June to July with very long and slender fluffy spikes that sway with the slightest breeze at the end of long stems adorned with leaflets gathered in clusters. It is very hardy and thrives in partial shade, in moist to waterlogged soils, ideal on riverbanks and near water.

Veronicastrum virginicum is a deciduous perennial plant native to the eastern United States, specifically floodplains, riverbanks, and wet ditches from Manitoba to Florida, Oregon to Arkansas. It belongs to the Plantaginaceae family (formerly Scrophulariaceae). 'Apollo' quickly forms an erect clump composed of numerous stems covered with fairly dark green foliage. When in bloom, this plant can reach a height of 150 cm (59in) with a spread of 80 cm (32in). It flowers from June to July, depending on the climate. The fine and long 25 cm (10in) spikes have a fluffy appearance with many tiny lavender-blue flowers with prominent stamens which are loved by pollinating insects. The foliage consists of lanceolate, dark green, rough leaflets gathered in whorls, arranged in a star shape at different levels of the stem. The vegetation of Veronicastrum virginicum dries up in winter and regrows in spring.

Plant Veronicastrum virginicum in partial shade, wherever the soil is permanently moist, as they dislike drought and scorching sun. They do not like to be disturbed but do not take up too much space on the ground. They bring rhythm and height to borders, near water. They will be enhanced against a dark background, like the purple foliage of hazelnut trees and maple trees. Perennials that prefer moist to wet soil, such as water avens, Ligularia dentata 'Desdemona', meadowsweets (Filipendula), and the fern Osmunda regalis 'Purpurascens', will be good companions for this beautiful plant.