Veronica Franciscana Blue Gem

Description

Veronica Franciscana Blue Gem, also known as creeping speedwell, is a low-growing perennial plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. It is native to Europe and is commonly found in rocky or sandy areas. This plant is known for its blue-violet flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. It grows up to 5 inches tall and spreads up to 12 inches wide.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Veronica Franciscana Blue Gem has small, oval-shaped leaves that are light green in color. The leaves grow in a rosette form and can be up to 1 inch long. The plant produces small, blue-violet flowers that are about 0.5 inches in diameter. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and have a long flowering period. The plant grows up to 5 inches tall and spreads up to 12 inches wide. It has a creeping habit and can be used as a ground cover.

Care Guide

Veronica Franciscana Blue Gem is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It requires moderate watering and should be planted in well-draining soil. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-8. It does not require fertilization, but can benefit from a light application of compost in the spring. The plant does not require pruning, but can be trimmed back after flowering to maintain its shape.

Common Pests & Diseases

Veronica Franciscana Blue Gem is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It can also be affected by powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.

Habitat

Veronica Franciscana Blue Gem is native to Europe and can be found in rocky or sandy areas. It is commonly used as a ground cover in rock gardens or as a border plant.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Veronica Franciscana Blue Gem be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Veronica Franciscana Blue Gem can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s spreading habit.

Q: How often should Veronica Franciscana Blue Gem be watered?

A: Veronica Franciscana Blue Gem should be watered moderately, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

Q: How long does the flowering period of Veronica Franciscana Blue Gem last?

A: The flowering period of Veronica Franciscana Blue Gem lasts from late spring to early summer.

Q: How can powdery mildew be treated in Veronica Franciscana Blue Gem?

A: Powdery mildew can be treated with a fungicide spray or by removing affected leaves.

Related Plants

• Veronica Spicata
• Veronica Andersonii
• Veronica Longifolia
• Veronicastrum Virginicum

References

• “Veronica Franciscana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c275. Accessed 27 Sept. 2021.
• “Veronica Franciscana Blue Gem.” Gardenia.net, www.gardenia.net/plant/veronica-franciscana-blue-gem. Accessed 27 Sept. 2021.
• “Creeping Speedwell.” Plant Care Guide, www.plantcareguide.com/creeping-speedwell/. Accessed 27 Sept. 2021.