Veronicastrum virginicum

Culver's Root

Culver's root is a graceful perennial typically reaching 4-6' tall when in bloom. Slender flower spikes are densely packed with small white flowers that open from the top down in mid-summer. Butterflies and other pollinators visit the flowers for nectar. The tall stems provide good winter cover for all kinds of hibernating insect wildlife.

Benefits:

Nectar source for butterflies and other pollinators

Seeds benefit game birds like quail or pheasant, and finches

Old stems provide winter cover for beneficial insects

Blooms for 4 to 6 weeks

Good cut flower

Homeowner Growing and Maintenance Tips

Grow in moist, well-drained soil in full sun. Leaves will get crispy if the soil dries out.

Tolerates light shade but requires support if grown in too much shade.

Apply a balanced fertilizer two or three times during the season for best growth.

Usually takes several years to become established in the garden.

Leave the stems standing through winter to provide cover for beneficial insects.

Height 4-6 Feet

Spread 2-4 Feet

Native Range Clearings and moist meadows and prairies; Vermont to Manitoba south to Louisiana and Georgia.

Native Trivia Meadow plants like this one grow well together, which is why meadows support a higher number of species than many other ecotypes. They are an excellent alternative to lawn, which is usually only one or two species.

USDA Hardiness Zone 3-8

"This durable plant provides a summer nectar treat for us butterflies and seed in the fall for my bird friends."

Characteristics & Attributes

Plan Sub Group • Medium to Tall Perennials	Exposure • Sun • Filtered Shade	Soil Moisture Preference • Moist • Average	Attracts Wildlife • Songbirds • Butterflies • Beneficial insects
Bloom Time • Summer	Habitat Collection • Songbird • Wet Sun • Butterfly