Veronica catarractae is a semi-woody sub-shrub native to rocky gorges and waterfall margins in New Zealand. It forms a low, spreading mound of small dark green leaves and carries clusters of white to pale lilac flowers with fine purple veining throughout summer. The cultivar 'Delight' holds the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit and is the form most widely grown in cultivation.
Despite its streamside origins, this plant does not tolerate waterlogged soil. Sharp drainage is essential; it thrives in rock gardens, raised beds, dry-stone walls, and sloped sites with good air movement. It is reasonably drought-tolerant once established and handles coastal exposure well. A light trim after peak flowering encourages compact regrowth and often prompts a second flush. Foliage is effectively evergreen in zones 9–10. At the cool edge of its range, light frost may scorch leaves but rarely kills established plants.
Root rot
Plants wilt, yellow, and stunt even in moist soil; lower stems and roots turn brown, soft, and mushy and the plant may collapse. Most common in heavy, wet, or poorly drained ground.
Improve drainage and stop overwatering, and never plant too deep. Lift and destroy badly affected plants along with the soil around the roots. Grow in raised or free-draining beds to prevent it returning.
Powdery mildew
White or grey powdery coating on leaves - usually starting on older growth in humid conditions or when nights cool.
Improve air circulation by thinning plants. Apply neem oil or potassium bicarbonate spray at first sign. Avoid overhead watering.
Fungal leaf spot
Brown or purplish spots on the leaves, often ringed with a yellow halo, that spread and merge in warm, humid, or wet weather; heavily spotted leaves yellow and drop early.
Pick off spotted leaves and clear fallen debris to remove overwintering spores. Improve air circulation by thinning, and water at the base so foliage dries quickly. If it persists, apply a copper- or sulfur-based fungicide at the first sign.