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A trailing, scrambling species with dark purple flowers in the leaf axils. It is a warmth lover and I have failed to establish it outside a couple of times.
I can grow it for a short while in a pot in the greenhouse but it prefers a free root run and sulks after a while. Cotswold Garden Flowers say: "An improbable veronica relative. Short axillary clusters of out-facing deep blue-purple flowers Aug-Oct from a scandent (semi-climbing) evergreen to semi-herbaceous stem to 2m. Native to a limited area of Honshu, Japan. Sun (but mine does well in shade)." There is some difference in opinion regarding the name: V.villosulum or V.villosum. Plants of the World online says V.villosulumis correct. Farmyard Nurseries say: "Veronicastrum villosum BSWJ4543 is a rare, climbing perennial found exclusively in a limited area of Honshu, central Japan. It features long, scandent stems that can reach up to 2 meters, making it an excellent choice for trellises or other supports in the garden. Its distinctive foliage consists of narrow, hairy, grey-green leaves that add texture and interest throughout the growing season. In late summer through autumn, this unique plant produces short axillary spikes of striking deep blue-purple flowers that face outward from the upper leaf axils. These blooms provide a vibrant splash of color and attract pollinators to the garden, enhancing its appeal. For optimal growth, Veronicastrum villosum thrives best in full sun and well-drained soil. Its hardiness and climbing habit make it a versatile addition to sunny borders or mixed plantings, where it can climb gracefully over supports. Given its rarity and beauty, this perennial is a prized plant for gardeners seeking something unusual and visually captivating for their collection." This may be the same stock as that introduced by Crug Farm Plants under the name V. villosum HWJK.4543. They say: "A rare climbing/scandent perennial found only in a confined area of Honshu, central Japan. On long scandent stems to 2m, with long narrow hairy grey-green foliage, bearing short axillary spikes of outward-facing deep blue-purple flowers, from the upper leaf-axils in late summer-autumn. Best grown in full sun in a well drained soil." |
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| 2nd October 2019 | ||
