Contents
Description
Veronica Catenata, commonly known as the mountain speedwell or catena speedwell, is a low-growing perennial plant that is native to the western United States. It belongs to the Plantaginaceae family and is an herbaceous plant that grows between 3-8 inches tall. Veronica Catenata blooms in the summer months, producing small blue flowers that are arranged in a raceme.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Veronica |
Appearance
Veronica Catenata has small, oval-shaped leaves that grow in pairs along the stem. The leaves are a vibrant green color and are approximately 1 inch long. The plant’s stems are thin and erect, with multiple stems growing from the base of the plant. Veronica Catenata produces small blue flowers that grow in a raceme, meaning they are arranged in a long, narrow cluster along the stem. The flowers have five petals and are approximately 0.25 inches wide.
Care Guide
Veronica Catenata is a low-maintenance plant that is fairly easy to care for.
Water
Veronica Catenata prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be constantly wet. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch, but do not overwater.
Fertilization
Veronica Catenata does not require frequent fertilization. You can fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil
Veronica Catenata prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
Sunlight
Veronica Catenata prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
Veronica Catenata is hardy in zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Veronica Catenata is generally not affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet.
Habitat
Veronica Catenata is commonly found in high-altitude meadows and rocky slopes in the western United States, particularly in California, Oregon, and Washington. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Veronica Catenata?
A: Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch, but do not overwater.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Veronica Catenata?
A: Veronica Catenata prefers slightly acidic soil.
Q: Does Veronica Catenata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Veronica Catenata’s small blue flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Veronica Catenata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Veronica Catenata can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Related Plants
- Veronica serpyllifolia
- Veronicastrum virginicum
- Veronica spicata
- Veronica longifolia
References
- “Veronica catenata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j880. Accessed 26 Aug. 2021.
- “Veronica catenata.” Plant Database, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/veronica-catenata/. Accessed 26 Aug. 2021.
- “Veronica catenata.” PlantFiles, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/62496/. Accessed 26 Aug. 2021.
