Fauna
Plant

Spiked Speedwell

Veronica spicata

Also known as Spike Speedwell

Densely packed spikes of starry violet-blue flowers rise high above low mounds of downy, narrow foliage in midsummer. Native to dry grasslands and rocky limestone slopes across Europe and Asia, this sun-loving perennial thrives in lean, well-drained soils. Its vibrant inflorescences serve as vital mid-season feeding stations for bumblebees, solitary bees, and butterflies.

FloweringPerennialPollinator Magnet
Spiked Speedwell reference1 / 7
(c) Andreas Rockstein, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyAutotrophic (Photosynthesis)
Predators
  • Slugs
  • Snails
  • Rabbits
ThreatsHabitat destruction, scrub encroachment, agricultural expansion
HabitatsDry grasslands, rocky slopes, limestone pastures, meadows
Life spanPerennial (5–10 years)
Classification
  1. OrderLamiales
  2. FamilyPlantaginaceae
  3. GenusVeronica
  4. SpeciesVeronica spicata
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Field Identification: Watch for unbranched, candle-like flower spikes opening from bottom to top.
  • Garden Care: Provide full sun and lean, sharply draining soil to prevent root rot.
  • Pollinator Watching: Visit on sunny afternoons when bees and butterflies actively forage.
Related species
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