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Description
Veronica Plantaginea, also known as Large-Leaved Speedwell, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to China. It belongs to the Plantaginaceae family and is a popular ornamental plant due to its long-lasting, delicate white flowers that bloom in late summer and early autumn. The plant can grow up to 18 inches tall and 24 inches wide, making it an excellent ground cover or border plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Veronica |
Appearance
Veronica Plantaginea has large, dark green leaves that resemble those of a hosta plant. The leaves are ovate, opposite, and grow up to 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. The plant produces upright stems that bear spikes of pure white flowers with yellow stamens. The flowers are about 1 inch across and bloom in late summer and early autumn. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9 and grows well in partial shade to full sun.
Care Guide
Veronica Plantaginea is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once in the spring and again in mid-summer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: Plant in partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Veronica Plantaginea is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Veronica Plantaginea is relatively pest-resistant and disease-free. However, it may occasionally suffer from powdery mildew, leaf spot, or root rot if grown in poorly-drained soil. To prevent these problems, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid over-watering the plant.
Habitat
Veronica Plantaginea is native to China and can be found growing in woodland areas, on rocky slopes, and in meadows. It prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -30°F.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Veronica Plantaginea deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Veronica Plantaginea is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Veronica Plantaginea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Veronica Plantaginea can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How do I propagate Veronica Plantaginea?
A: Veronica Plantaginea can be propagated by division in spring or autumn.
Q: Can Veronica Plantaginea be used as a cut flower?
A: Yes, Veronica Plantaginea can be used as a cut flower as its blooms last for several weeks when cut and placed in water.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Veronica Plantaginea that you may be interested in:
- Veronicastrum virginicum
- Veronica spicata
- Veronica longifolia
- Veronica gentianoides
References
- “Veronica Plantaginea – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278638.
- “Veronica Plantaginea – White Form.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/240108/Veronica-plantaginea-White-Form/Details.
- “Veronica Plantaginea.” North Carolina State University, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/veronica-plantaginea/.
