Description
Veronica canterburiensis is a compact, small-leaved shrub. Its name infers that is found only in Canterbury. However its range is from the southern North Island and mostly to the west of the Main Divide in the South Island in mountainous regions. Most observations occur between the Tararua Range and Arthur’s Pass. V. canterburiensis is part of a Beech (with Fuscospora cliffortioides) forest plant community, at or close to the tree-line, and in subalpine grassland and shrubland.
The genus Veronica are fast growing and thrive in sunny open areas, such as scrubland, steep banks and bluffs. Veronicas require very little care. Avoid feeding them as this can make them grow too quickly and develop floppy leaves. Cut back dead flowers and up to a third of foliage in late summer, after flowering, to encourage strong new growth and a good bushy shape. Annual pruning will extend the life of your shrub, too. Hard pruning can rejuvenate an old plant and give it an extra lease of life.
This hardy plant has small white flowers in spikes at the end of its branches. Veronica canterburiensis flowers from mid-October to January. Flowers attract butterflies.
