Contents
Description
Veronica Catarractae, commonly known as Water Speedwell, is a perennial herb that belongs to the plant family Plantaginaceae. It is native to Europe and can be found growing in damp and marshy areas such as riverbanks, wet meadows, and ditches. The plant has a striking blue-violet color and produces small, delicate flowers that bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Veronica |
Appearance
Veronica Catarractae can grow up to 60cm in height and has a sprawling, creeping habit. The leaves are lance-shaped, glossy, and dark green in color. The flowers are small and star-shaped with five petals that are blue-violet in color. They bloom in the summer and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Veronica Catarractae is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in moist soil and full sun. Here are some tips on how to take care of it:
Water: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant needs full sun to thrive, but it can tolerate some shade.
Hardiness Zones: Veronica Catarractae can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Veronica Catarractae is generally not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, it may be affected by the following:
Powdery mildew: A fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves.
Root rot: A fungal disease that causes the roots to rot and the plant to wilt.
Aphids: Small insects that suck sap from the plant and cause yellowing of the leaves.
Habitat
Veronica Catarractae is native to Europe and can be found growing in damp and marshy areas such as riverbanks, wet meadows, and ditches. It prefers moist soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Veronica Catarractae poisonous?
A: No, Veronica Catarractae is not toxic to humans or animals.
Q: Can Veronica Catarractae grow in a container?
A: Yes, Veronica Catarractae can be grown in a container as long as it has moist soil and full sun.
Q: How often should I fertilize Veronica Catarractae?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Veronica Catarractae?
A: Veronica Catarractae can be propagated through division or by taking stem cuttings in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Veronica Catarractae:
- Veronica Americana
- Veronica Chamaedrys
- Veronicastrum Virginicum
- Veronica Officinalis
- Veronica Spicata
References
- “Veronica Catarractae.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 7 June 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantdetails/231625/veronica-catarractae
- “Veronica Catarractae.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 7 June 2021. www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/228842/i-Veronica-catarractae-i/Details
- “Veronica Catarractae.” Plant Finder. Accessed 7 June 2021. www.plantfinder.co.uk/plants/veronica-catarractae-33
