Veronica Magic Show® 'Purple Illusion'

Veronica Magic Show® 'Purple Illusion': Thick Purple Spikes on a Tidy Clump

'Purple Illusion' pulls thick rosy-purple spikes out of a tidy green hat, and nobody can figure out how it keeps doing it. NOW YOU SEE IT. NOW YOU STILL SEE IT.

Plant Characteristics:

• Botanical Name: Veronica hybrid
• Common Name: Spike Speedwell
• Series: Magic Show®, a Proven Winners® perennial
• Height: 41–46 cm (16–18 in)
• Spread: 41–46 cm (16–18 in)
• Flowers: Thick, rosy-purple spikes
• Bloom Time: Early to midsummer (June to July)
• Foliage: Dark green, forming a thick, tidy canopy
• Features: Long blooming, salt tolerant, Penn State Trials Top Performer (2020)
• Plant Patent: USPP 31,301 / Can PBR 7080

Where to Plant: It's a great front-of-border plant for sun, and it holds its own in containers and mass plantings. The spikes are sturdy enough for small bouquets, and its salt tolerance makes it a good choice near driveways and walks.

Companion Plants: Echinacea 'Coral Craze' adds coral coneflowers at 65 to 70 cm from July to September, a warm partner for the purple spikes. Astrantia 'Star of Billion' brings white pincushion flowers at 55 to 65 cm from June to August. Hemerocallis 'Mini Stella' sits in front at 20 to 25 cm with yellow flowers from July to September. Each plant here does well in full sun to partial sun.

Plant Care: Plant in full sun in average to fertile, well-drained soil. Work in compost if your soil is heavy clay or very sandy. Water regularly, especially during its first season. Deadhead spent spikes to keep new ones coming. Shear the clump back after blooming if the leaves look tired. Cut back in late fall or early spring. Divide in spring every few years to keep it vigorous.

History: 'Purple Illusion' was introduced by Walters Gardens in Zeeland, Michigan, as part of its Magic Show® collection, with the habit of 'Wizard of Ahhs' but thicker, more purple flowers. It was named a Top Performer in the Penn State Trials in 2020.

Final Thoughts: Deer and road salt can't spoil the act. Bees and butterflies applaud. NO SLEIGHT OF HAND, JUST FLOWERS.