Veronica Serpyllifolia

Description

Veronica Serpyllifolia, commonly known as Thyme-leaved Speedwell, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. This species of Veronica is native to Europe, but it has now spread to other parts of the world, including North America. It is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial that has a creeping habit and produces small blue flowers from May to September.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Veronica Serpyllifolia has small, oval-shaped, bright green leaves that are arranged oppositely on the stem. The leaves are about 1 cm long and have a slightly serrated margin. The stem of the plant is thin, wiry, and slightly hairy. The plant grows to a height of about 5-10 cm and can spread up to 50 cm in width. The flowers are small, about 3-4 mm in diameter, and are a beautiful shade of blue. They are produced in dense racemes at the end of the stems from May to September.

Care Guide

Veronica Serpyllifolia is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your Thyme-leaved Speedwell healthy:

Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the hot summer months. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can lead to excessive growth and weak stems.

Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils.

Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but the flowers may not be as abundant or vivid in color.

Hardiness Zones: Veronica Serpyllifolia is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Veronica Serpyllifolia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:

Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow.

Spider Mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and speckling of the leaves. They are more common in hot, dry weather.

Root Rot: This fungal disease can affect the plant if the soil is too wet. Symptoms include yellowing and wilting of the leaves.

Habitat

Veronica Serpyllifolia is native to Europe, but it has now spread to other parts of the world, including North America. It can be found growing in meadows, pastures, woodland edges, and disturbed areas. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Veronica Serpyllifolia deer resistant?

A: Yes, Veronica Serpyllifolia is deer resistant.

Q: Can Veronica Serpyllifolia be grown in a container?

A: Yes, Veronica Serpyllifolia can be grown in a container as long as it has well-drained soil and receives enough sunlight.

Q: Can Veronica Serpyllifolia be propagated by cuttings?

A: Yes, Veronica Serpyllifolia can be propagated by cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.

Q: What is the best time to plant Veronica Serpyllifolia?

A: The best time to plant Veronica Serpyllifolia is in the spring or fall when the soil is moist and temperatures are mild.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Veronica Serpyllifolia:

• Veronica Chamaedrys
• Veronica spicata
• Veronica longifolia
• Veronicastrum virginicum

References

• “Veronica serpyllifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c707.
• “Veronica serpyllifolia.” Plant Finder. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/1537/thyme-leaved-speedwell/.
• “Veronica serpyllifolia.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/13898/Veronica-serpyllifolia/Details.