Veronica Parviflora
Contents
Description
Veronica Parviflora, also known as the Smallflower Speedwell, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and can be found in various habitats, including meadows, fields, and roadsides. The plant typically grows up to a height of 30 cm and produces small blue or purple flowers from May through September. The flowers of Veronica Parviflora are attractive to bees and butterflies, making it a popular option for pollinator gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Veronica |
Appearance
Veronica Parviflora has a compact and bushy growth habit with small, ovate leaves that are arranged in opposite pairs. The leaves are usually green, but they can turn reddish-brown in autumn. The plant produces slender stems that are covered in fine hairs and can grow up to 30 cm in height. The flowers are small, measuring about 5 mm in diameter, and are arranged in dense spikes that can grow up to 10 cm long. They have four petals that are blue or purple in color and a white center.
Care Guide
Veronica Parviflora is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires moderate watering and some fertilization during the growing season. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and can tolerate full sun to partial shade. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9 and can survive temperatures as low as -30 degrees Fahrenheit.
Water
Veronica Parviflora prefers moist soil but can tolerate brief periods of drought. Water the plant thoroughly once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter months. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Feed Veronica Parviflora with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and flowering. Apply the fertilizer once a month according to the package instructions.
Soil
Veronica Parviflora prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils. Make sure the soil is not too compacted, as this can impede root growth.
Sunlight
Veronica Parviflora prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in stunted growth and fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones
Veronica Parviflora is hardy in USDA zones 4-9. It can survive temperatures as low as -30 degrees Fahrenheit.
Common Pests & Diseases
Veronica Parviflora is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions. To prevent fungal infections, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation. The plant can also be affected by spider mites and aphids, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Veronica Parviflora is native to Europe and Asia and can be found in various habitats, including meadows, fields, and roadsides. It prefers open areas with well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. The plant is a popular option for pollinator gardens due to its attractive flowers, which are visited by bees and butterflies.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Veronica Parviflora a good plant for pollinators?
A: Yes, Veronica Parviflora is a good plant for pollinators such as bees and butterflies due to its attractive flowers.
Q: What is the ideal growing condition for Veronica Parviflora?
A: Veronica Parviflora prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and can tolerate full sun to partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9 and can survive temperatures as low as -30 degrees Fahrenheit.
Q: How often should I water Veronica Parviflora?
A: Water Veronica Parviflora thoroughly once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter months. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Veronica Parviflora be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Veronica Parviflora can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Related Plants
- Veronica Spicata
- Veronicastrum Virginicum
- Veronica Longifolia
- Veronicastrum Sibiricum
References
- “Veronica parviflora.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 28 June 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c800>.
- “Veronica parviflora L.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 28 June 2021. <http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:811368-1>.
- “Smallflower Speedwell.” Fine Gardening. Accessed 28 June 2021. <https://www.finegardening.com/plant/smallflower-speedwell-veronica-parviflora>.
