Culver's root
Veronicastrum virginicum 'Apollo'
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Frequent
Propagation:
Division
Hardiness Zone:
3 - 8
Flowers:
White to pale blue Flowers In Summer
Sun:
Full sun
Soil:
Well-drained
Fruits:
green,brown Fruits In Autumn Ready In Fall
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
High
Maintenance:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Culver's root (Veronicastrum virginicum 'Apollo') should be watered deeply about every 7-10 days. During periods of high heat and sun, increase watering frequency to every 5 days, making sure the soil stays moist but not soggy. During summer months, Culver's root should be lightly watered twice a week in the morning to keep the soil cool and moist. During dry, hot weather, avoid watering every day, and water only when the upper inch or 2 of soil has dried out. In colder weather, only water when the soil has completely dried out between waterings.
sunlight
Culver's root (Veronicastrum virginicum 'Apollo') will need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight a day for healthy growth. If possible, it should be planted in an area that receives full sun in the morning, but some afternoon shade in the hottest part of the day. This will protect the plant from the searing heat of the peak of the day and will also help to keep the soil moist from the sun's heat. Watering will still be needed for this plant species, but it may not be necessary as often if provided with adequate sunlight.
pruning
Culver's root should be pruned regularly, starting in late fall and continuing through early spring. Pruning helps promote healthy growth and increases flowering the following year. A light trim of the dead stems in late fall or early winter will help encourage new growth come spring. Old flowers and seed pods should also be removed as soon as possible after flowering and reseeding has finished. This will also help avoid disease and insect problems down the road. Pruning should be done to remove any weak, damaged stems or to shape the plant. Be sure to avoid removing more than 1-third of the plant’s foliage and stems per year, or prune only if necessary. Note that, despite being a perennial, Culver's root prefers to make its growth in the spring and fall seasons and may experience dieback in the winter. If it does experience winter dieback, be sure to prune those parts of the plant to ensure healthy and full growth in the following season.
