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Description
Veronica Cheesemanii, commonly known as Cheeseman’s speedwell, is a low-growing evergreen perennial plant that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. This plant is native to the subalpine regions of New Zealand’s South Island and can be found growing in rocky areas and tussock grasslands. Veronica Cheesemanii is named after Thomas Frederic Cheeseman, a prominent botanist in New Zealand.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Veronica |
Appearance
Veronica Cheesemanii is a low-growing plant that typically reaches a height of 5-10cm and spreads out to 30-40cm. The plant has narrow, leathery, deep green leaves that are slightly curled at the edges. From spring to summer, Veronica Cheesemanii produces small, pale blue flowers that are arranged in spikes. The flowers have a yellow center and are about 5mm in diameter. Veronica Cheesemanii is a great choice for rock gardens, borders, and ground covers due to its low-growing habit and attractive foliage.
Care Guide
Veronica Cheesemanii is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to take care of this plant:
- Water: Veronica Cheesemanii prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.
- Fertilization: Veronica Cheesemanii does not need heavy fertilization. Fertilize the plant once a year with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: Veronica Cheesemanii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral.
- Sunlight: Veronica Cheesemanii prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade will affect the plant’s growth and flowering.
- Hardiness Zones: Veronica Cheesemanii is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Veronica Cheesemanii is generally a disease-free plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests such as aphids, spider mites, and slugs. To prevent these pests, keep the plant healthy and free from debris. If necessary, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
Habitat
Veronica Cheesemanii is native to the subalpine regions of New Zealand’s South Island, where it grows in rocky areas, tussock grasslands, and alpine herbfields. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate cold temperatures and harsh weather conditions. Veronica Cheesemanii is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Veronica Cheesemanii a good plant for ground cover?
A: Yes, Veronica Cheesemanii is a good plant for ground cover due to its low-growing habit and attractive foliage.
Q: How often should I water Veronica Cheesemanii?
A: Water Veronica Cheesemanii regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter. The plant prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be waterlogged.
Q: Can Veronica Cheesemanii tolerate shade?
A: Veronica Cheesemanii prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade will affect the plant’s growth and flowering.
Q: What hardiness zones can Veronica Cheesemanii grow in?
A: Veronica Cheesemanii is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Related Plants
- Veronica spicata
- Veronica longifolia
- Veronica gentianoides
- Veronica umbrosa
References
- Flora of New Zealand: Veronica Cheesemanii – https://www.nzflora.info/factsheet/Taxon/Veronica-cheesemanii.html
- RHS: Veronica Cheesemanii – https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/105001/Veronica-Cheesemanii/Details
- Gardenia: Veronica Cheesemanii – https://www.gardenia.net/plant/veronica-cheesemanii
