Speedwell is perennial that deserves to be grown in more gardens. Not only is it very low maintenance, but it attracts butterflies almost as well as Butterfly Bush does. Royal Candles is a low growing variety of Speedwell that has fantastic upright “candles” of flowers throughout most of the summer. The foliage of Royal Candles doesn’t die back from the bottom like other varieties, giving this Speedwell a very fresh and healthy appearance the whole time it is in bloom.
Speedwell performs well as an edging plant and in containers. The compactness of royal Candles would make for a lovely ground cover if planted in a large group. Imagine filling one corner of your garden with brilliant blue flower spikes from June to August and not having to worry about slug damage or deer browsing.
Royal Candles Speedwell Care
Speedwell likes to grow in full sun and in well drained soil. Excellent drainage in the winter is very important to avoid the roots rotting. Royal Candles will become more drought tolerant as it matures. Keeping this perennial well watered for the first couple of years is important for proper establishment of the roots. Fertilizing with a well balanced, slow release feed in the spring will help Speedwell to vigorously multiply and spread.
Shearing back the first flush of blooms will result in another round of blooms late in the summer. Alternately, regular deadheading of spent blooms will keep Royal Candles blooming non-stop through the summer. Container growing Speedwell is very easy. Regular watering will be necessary as will feeding with a diluted liquid feed once a month.
Royal Candles Speedwell Spacing
Spacing this quick growing perennial is essential if you are to grow it in large groups. The mature height is 12-15 inches with a width of 15-18 inches. Planting 16 inches, center on center, is recommended. Container growing needs to be done in at least a 16 inch diameter pot.
Royal Candles Speedwell Information
USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 – 8
Plant Type:
Light Exposure: Full Sun (At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)
Mature Height: 12 – 15 Inches
Mature Spread: 15 – 18 Inches
Spacing: 15 – 18 Inches
Habit: Upright
Flower Color(s): Blue
Flower Description: Deep Blue
Bloom Period: June To August
Foliage Type: Herbaceous
Foliage Color(s): Green
Foliage Description:
Seasonal Interest: Summer Flowering
Watering: Average
Resists: Deer
Tolerates: Salt
Attracts: Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Container Role:
Uses: Borders, Containers, Mass Planting, Wildlife Gardens
