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Description
Veronica Derwentiana, also known as Derwent Speedwell or Derwent River Speedwell, is a beautiful herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. This plant is native to the Himalayas and can be found growing in moist meadows and along stream banks. Veronica Derwentiana is a stunning plant that produces spikes of deep blue flowers that bloom during the late spring and early summer. It is a perfect addition to any garden or landscape, especially for those who love blue flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Veronica |
Appearance
Veronica Derwentiana is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 60cm tall and 30cm wide. Its leaves are lance-shaped, narrow, and pointed, with a slightly serrated edge. The leaves are dark green in color and can grow up to 5cm long. The plant produces spikes of deep blue flowers that bloom during late spring and early summer. The flowers are small, tubular, and have four petals. They are arranged in a dense spike that can grow up to 10cm long. The plant’s flowers are pollinated by bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Veronica Derwentiana is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for.
Water
This plant prefers moist soil, so be sure to water it regularly, especially during dry spells. However, be careful not to overwater it as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Veronica Derwentiana does not require much fertilizer. You can add a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring.
Soil
This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal.
Sunlight
Veronica Derwentiana prefers partial to full sun, but it can also grow in shade.
Hardiness Zones
This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Veronica Derwentiana is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Veronica Derwentiana is native to the Himalayas, where it can be found growing in moist meadows and along stream banks. It prefers moist soil and partial to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Veronica Derwentiana a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Veronica Derwentiana is a great plant for beginners as it is low-maintenance and easy to care for.
Q: Can Veronica Derwentiana grow in shade?
A: Yes, Veronica Derwentiana can grow in shade, but it prefers partial to full sun.
Q: When does Veronica Derwentiana bloom?
A: Veronica Derwentiana blooms during late spring and early summer.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Veronica Derwentiana?
A: The ideal soil pH for Veronica Derwentiana is between 6.0 and 7.5.
Related Plants
- Veronica Spicata
- Veronica Longifolia
- Veronicastrum Virginicum
- Veronica Chamaedrys
References
- “Veronica Derwentiana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=302279.
- “Veronica Derwentiana.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/19140/Veronica-Derwentiana/Details.
- “Veronica Derwentiana.” Plant Delights Nursery, www.plantdelights.com/products/veronica-derwentiana.
