Contents
Description
Veronica Filiformis, also known as Slender Speedwell, is a low-growing herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. It is native to Europe and can be found in North America as well. It typically grows up to 10-12 inches in height and spreads up to 18-24 inches in width. The plant produces small, bright blue flowers that bloom in early to mid-summer. The leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and arranged opposite each other on the stem. Veronica Filiformis is a great choice for rock gardens, borders, and as a groundcover.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Veronica |
Appearance
Veronica Filiformis is a low-growing plant with a height of 10-12 inches and a spread of 18-24 inches. The leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and arranged opposite each other on the stem. The flowers are small, bright blue, and bloom in early to mid-summer. The plant has a dense, mat-like growth habit and is a great choice for rock gardens, borders, and as a groundcover.
Care Guide
Water: Veronica Filiformis prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: Veronica Filiformis thrives in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Add compost or organic matter to the soil to improve its fertility and drainage.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Provide at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth.
Hardiness Zones: Veronica Filiformis is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Veronica Filiformis is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and removing infected plant material. The plant can be attacked by slugs and snails, which can be controlled by using slug baits or handpicking them off the plant.
Habitat
Veronica Filiformis is native to Europe and can be found in North America as well. It grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, fields, and woodland edges. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Veronica Filiformis a good choice for rock gardens?
A: Yes, Veronica Filiformis is a great choice for rock gardens due to its low-growing, mat-like growth habit.
Q: Can Veronica Filiformis tolerate drought?
A: No, Veronica Filiformis prefers moist soil and cannot tolerate drought.
Q: How often should I fertilize Veronica Filiformis?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the ideal pH for Veronica Filiformis soil?
A: The plant thrives in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
Related Plants
- Veronica Spicata
- Veronica Repens
- Veronicastrum Virginicum
- Veronica Longifolia
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/veronica-filiformis-slender-speedwell
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/groundcover/creeping-speedwell/veronica-creeping-speedwell.htm
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c840
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/13006/i-veronica-filiformis-i/details
