Veronica Speciosa

Description

Veronica Speciosa, also known as Showy Speedwell, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. It is native to Europe and Western Asia and is commonly found in gardens and meadows. This plant is known for its showy flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are blue-violet and grow in spikes that can reach up to 30cm. The foliage is also attractive, with dark green leaves that are lance-shaped and arranged in a rosette. Veronica Speciosa is a popular choice for gardeners due to its low maintenance and long blooming period.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Veronica Speciosa is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to 60cm in height and 45cm in width. The plant has a clumping growth habit and produces multiple stems that are upright and slightly arching. The foliage is dark green and grows in a rosette at the base of the plant. The leaves are lance-shaped and have serrated edges. The flowers grow in spikes that emerge from the top of the stems. Each spike can have up to 30 individual flowers that are blue-violet in color and have a white center. The flowers are tubular and have a four-lobed corolla. Veronica Speciosa blooms from late spring to early summer and attracts bees and butterflies to the garden.

Care Guide

Veronica Speciosa is a low maintenance plant that is easy to grow in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips to keep your plant healthy:

• Water: Water your plant regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: Plant Veronica Speciosa in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Plant your Veronica Speciosa in full sun to partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Veronica Speciosa is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Veronica Speciosa is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can still be affected by some common issues. Here are some to look out for:

• Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves.
• Slugs and snails: These pests can eat large holes in the leaves and damage the flowers.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves, which can lead to leaf drop.
• Root rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can cause the roots to rot, which can lead to wilting and death.

Habitat

Veronica Speciosa is native to Europe and Western Asia and is commonly found in meadows, grasslands, and gardens. It prefers moist soil and full sun to partial shade. Veronica Speciosa is also a popular choice for rock gardens and borders due to its low maintenance and attractive flowers.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Veronica Speciosa deer resistant?

A: Yes, Veronica Speciosa is deer resistant.

Q: Can Veronica Speciosa grow in containers?

A: Yes, Veronica Speciosa can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s growth.

Q: How often should I fertilize Veronica Speciosa?

A: You should fertilize Veronica Speciosa once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Q: How do I propagate Veronica Speciosa?

A: Veronica Speciosa can be propagated through division in the spring or fall.

Related Plants

• Veronicastrum virginicum
• Veronica spicata
• Veronica longifolia
• Veronicastrum sibiricum

References

• “Veronica Speciosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b610.
• “Veronica Speciosa.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/19139/Veronica-speciosa/Details.
• “Veronica Speciosa.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/veronica-speciosa-showy-speedwell.