Contents
Description
Veronica Agrestis, commonly known as Green Field Speedwell or Green Carpet Speedwell, is a low-growing perennial herb that is native to Europe but has now spread to other parts of the world. It belongs to the Plantaginaceae family and has a bright green foliage that creates a dense mat. It produces small, bluish-purple flowers that bloom from May to September. This plant is commonly used as a ground cover and is a great addition to rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Veronica |
Appearance
Veronica Agrestis has a low, creeping growth habit and can reach up to 5-10 cm in height. It has bright green leaves that are oval-shaped and arranged opposite each other on the stem. The leaves are about 0.5-1 cm long and have a toothed margin. The flowers are small, about 3-4 mm in diameter, and are arranged in clusters at the end of the stem. The flowers have four petals that are bluish-purple in color with white centers. The blooming period is from May to September.
Care Guide
Veronica Agrestis is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly but do not overwater. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Veronica Agrestis prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Veronica Agrestis is generally pest-free but may be susceptible to some diseases such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot.
Habitat
Veronica Agrestis is native to Europe but can now be found in other parts of the world such as North America and Asia. It grows in a variety of habitats such as meadows, fields, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Veronica Agrestis deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Veronica Agrestis is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Veronica Agrestis tolerate drought?
A: Veronica Agrestis prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought once established.
Q: How often should I fertilize Veronica Agrestis?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Veronica Agrestis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Veronica Agrestis can be grown in containers.
Related Plants
- Veronica austriaca
- Veronica filiformis
- Veronica serpyllifolia
- Veronica spicata
References
- “Veronica agrestis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org. Accessed 18 Aug. 2021.
- “Veronica agrestis.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com. Accessed 18 Aug. 2021.
- “Veronica agrestis.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk. Accessed 18 Aug. 2021.
