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Description
Veronica Longifolia Subsp. Longifolia, also known as Long-Leaf Speedwell or Tall Speedwell, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and is now widely cultivated in North America. This plant can reach up to 3 feet tall and 1 foot wide and has a clumping growth habit. Its leaves are lance-shaped and can grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers are small and blue or purple, and they bloom in early summer to early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Veronica |
Appearance
Veronica Longifolia Subsp. Longifolia is a tall and slender plant with a clumping growth habit. It can reach up to 3 feet tall and 1 foot wide. The leaves are lance-shaped, dark green, and can grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers are small, blue or purple, and bloom in early summer to early fall. The blooms grow in a long, slender spike that can reach up to 1 foot tall.
Care Guide
Veronica Longifolia Subsp. Longifolia is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for.
Water
This plant prefers moderate moisture levels and should be watered regularly. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilization
This plant does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring can be beneficial.
Soil
Veronica Longifolia Subsp. Longifolia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but it does not tolerate wet or poorly-draining soil.
Sunlight
This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not bloom as well.
Hardiness Zones
Veronica Longifolia Subsp. Longifolia is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Veronica Longifolia Subsp. Longifolia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, root rot, and rust. Proper care, including good airflow and well-draining soil, can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Veronica Longifolia Subsp. Longifolia is native to Europe and Asia and is now widely cultivated in North America. It grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, prairies, and open woods.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Veronica Longifolia Subsp. Longifolia a good cut flower?
A: Yes, the long spikes of small blue or purple flowers make Veronica Longifolia Subsp. Longifolia a great cut flower.
Q: Does Veronica Longifolia Subsp. Longifolia attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the flowers of Veronica Longifolia Subsp. Longifolia are attractive to bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Veronica Longifolia Subsp. Longifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Veronica Longifolia Subsp. Longifolia can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s size and growth habit.
Q: How often should Veronica Longifolia Subsp. Longifolia be divided?
A: Veronica Longifolia Subsp. Longifolia can be divided every 3-4 years in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Veronica Spicata
- Veronicastrum Virginicum
- Veronica Chamaedrys
- Veronica Officinalis
References
- “Veronica longifolia subsp. longifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b562.
- “Veronica.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Plantaginaceae/Veronica/.
- “Veronica longifolia L.” Plants of the World Online, plants.jstor.org/stable/10.5555/al.ap.specimen.up000572.
