Contents
Description
Veronica Pimeleoides, commonly known as Alpine Speedwell, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and Asia. It belongs to the family Plantaginaceae and is considered a popular garden plant due to its beautiful blue-violet flowers that bloom in late spring to summer. The plant has a clump-forming habit and can grow up to 8 inches tall and 12 inches wide. It is an excellent addition to rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Veronica |
Appearance
The leaves of Veronica Pimeleoides are green, narrow, and lance-shaped, measuring about 1-2 inches long. The stem is slender and upright, with multiple branching. The flowers are small (about 0.25 inches in diameter), blue-violet, and arranged in dense spikes. The plant blooms in late spring to summer and attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Veronica Pimeleoides is a low-maintenance plant that requires well-draining soil and moderate watering. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Veronica Pimeleoides is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Veronica Pimeleoides is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by maintaining good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. The plant is also not attractive to deer and rabbits.
Habitat
Veronica Pimeleoides is native to Europe and Asia and can be found in meadows, rocky slopes, and open woods. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Veronica Pimeleoides deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Veronica Pimeleoides is not attractive to deer and rabbits.
Q: Can Veronica Pimeleoides grow in containers?
A: Yes, Veronica Pimeleoides is an excellent addition to containers and rock gardens.
Q: What is the blooming period of Veronica Pimeleoides?
A: Veronica Pimeleoides blooms in late spring to summer.
Q: How often should I fertilize Veronica Pimeleoides?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Veronica Spicata
- Veronicastrum Virginicum
- Veronica Longifolia
- Veronicastrum Sibiricum
References
- “Veronica Pimeleoides.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c344.
- “Veronica Pimeleoides.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/50520/Veronica-pimeleoides/Details.
- “Veronica Pimeleoides.” Gardenia, gardenia.net/plant/veronica-pimeleoides-alpine-speedwell.
