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Description
Veronica Spicata, commonly known as Spiked Speedwell, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and can be found growing in meadows, rocky areas, and open woods. Veronica Spicata is a popular garden plant due to its long-lasting blooms, attractive foliage, and low maintenance requirements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Veronica |
Appearance
Veronica Spicata can grow up to 1-2 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. It has lance-shaped, dark green leaves that grow in opposite pairs along its stems. Its flowers bloom in summer and are arranged in dense, upright spikes that can grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers are usually blue or violet, but can also be pink or white. Veronica Spicata’s blooms attract butterflies and bees, making it a great addition to any pollinator garden.
Care Guide
Veronica Spicata is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips to keep your Spiked Speedwell healthy and thriving:
- Water: Veronica Spicata prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water it regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid overwatering.
- Fertilization: Fertilize Veronica Spicata once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Veronica Spicata grows best in fertile, well-draining soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soil.
- Sunlight: Veronica Spicata prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but will produce fewer flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Veronica Spicata is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Veronica Spicata is generally pest and disease-resistant, but it can sometimes be affected by the following:
- Powdery mildew
- Root rot
- Spider mites
- Aphids
To prevent these issues, make sure to plant Veronica Spicata in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. If you notice any signs of pests or disease, treat the plant with a suitable pesticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Veronica Spicata is native to Europe and Asia and can be found growing in meadows, rocky areas, and open woods. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types. Veronica Spicata is also commonly grown as a garden plant due to its attractive foliage and long-lasting blooms.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Veronica Spicata?
A: Veronica Spicata prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water it regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid overwatering.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize Veronica Spicata?
A: Fertilize Veronica Spicata once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Veronica Spicata tolerate shade?
A: Veronica Spicata prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but will produce fewer flowers.
Q: What hardiness zones can Veronica Spicata grow in?
A: Veronica Spicata is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Related Plants
- Veronicastrum virginicum
- Veronica umbrosa
- Veronica gentianoides
- Veronica longifolia
References
- “Veronica Spicata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277568.
- “Veronica Spicata.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/16799/veronica-spicata/details.
- “Veronica Spicata.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/spiked-speedwell-plant-profile-4768458.
