Photo: Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Large speedwell: when and how to prune
Veronica austriaca subsp. teucrium
Large speedwell is best pruned in March and July.
| Pruning months | March and July |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–July |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Large speedwell: when to prune it?
After flowering in July, with a tidy-up in March.
Large speedwell: how to prune it?
- After flowering, cut the faded spikes and long stems back to about 10 cm above the ground.
- The plant then regrows freshly and stays compact; a second, smaller flowering sometimes follows.
- In March, remove dead foliage and dried stems.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and July. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Large speedwell flowers in May–July, when it attracts bees.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
Nearby: related pruning guides
- Brooklime
- Garden speedwell
- Gentian speedwell
- Prostrate speedwell
- Spiked speedwell
- Hebe (Veronica × franciscana)
Plant profile: Large speedwell · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.