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Perennial

Blue Alpine Speedwell

Veronica alpina (syn. Veronica wormskjoldii)

Alpine SpeedwellAlpine VeronicaAmerican Alpine SpeedwellAlpine Brooklime

Blue Alpine Speedwell is a low-growing alpine wildflower with spikes of deep blue-violet flowers. This hardy perennial thrives in harsh mountain conditions and symbolizes fidelity, resilience, and alpine beauty.

Plant Family

Plantaginaceae (Plantain family)

Blooming

Late spring to summer (June-September)

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Blue Alpine Speedwell flowers in violet-blue spikes
Blue Alpine Speedwell flowers in violet-blue spikes

Symbolism & Meanings

Key Meanings

Fidelity
Loyalty
Alpine Beauty
Resilience
True Blue
Mountain Spirit

Perfect For

Friendship celebrationsMountain hiking commemorationsAlpine garden dedicationsExpressions of loyalty

Color Meanings

Deep Blue:Loyalty, fidelity, and true friendship
Violet:Devotion and spiritual awareness

Similar flowers: royal bluebells and blue himalayan gentians also share similar meanings.

Cultural Significance

The genus name "Veronica" is associated with Saint Veronica and symbolizes fidelity. Alpine speedwell is celebrated for its ability to thrive in harsh mountain environments while producing delicate blue flowers. It's considered an increasingly rare wildflower in some regions and is listed as endangered in Finland.
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Botanical Information

Physical Characteristics

Flower Size: Small flowers 6-10 mm wide in terminal spikes
Plant Size: 2-12 inches tall (5-30 cm)
Flower Shape: Four-petaled flowers in compact spikes

Natural Habitat

Native to: Circumpolar, North America (Rocky Mountains to Alaska), Europe, Greenland, Iceland, Siberia, Himalayas
Habitat: Moist alpine meadows, stream edges, lake shores, subalpine slopes, disturbed soils
Climate: Alpine, Subalpine, Cool Temperate

Growing Guide

Sunlight

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Moderate to high; prefers consistently moist soil

Soil

Moist but well-drained, Rocky, Average

Expert Growing Tips

1

Easy to grow and virtually maintenance-free

2

Stems root at nodes, spreading naturally

3

Attracts butterflies and other pollinators

4

Deer resistant

5

Forms dense mats of foliage

6

Prune after flowering to maintain shape

7

Propagate by division in spring or autumn

8

Prefers cool summer temperatures

Uses & Benefits

Ornamental Uses

  • Alpine and rock gardens
  • Ground cover for cool climates
  • Front of borders and edging
  • Containers
  • Crevice gardens
  • Moist meadow plantings

Frequently Asked Questions about the Blue Alpine Speedwell

what does speedwell symbolize?

Speedwell symbolizes fidelity and loyalty — the name Veronica is associated with faithfulness and true blue devotion.

where does alpine speedwell grow?

Alpine speedwell grows in moist subalpine to alpine meadows across the Northern Hemisphere — it's found from the Rocky Mountains to Iceland and Siberia.

how do you grow alpine speedwell?

Grow alpine speedwell in moist, well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade — it's easy to grow, spreads naturally, and attracts pollinators.

is alpine speedwell evergreen?

Some varieties like Veronica alpina 'Alba' are evergreen perennials — they keep their foliage year-round in milder climates.

Available Colors

Deep Blue
Violet
Blue-Purple
Rarely White

Quick Facts

Type:perennial
Family:Plantaginaceae (Plantain family)
Native to:Circumpolar
Blooms:Late spring to summer (June-September)

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