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Description
Veronica Spicata Royal Candles, also known as spike speedwell, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. The plant produces beautiful vibrant blue-violet flower spikes that bloom in early summer and last until late fall. It is a popular choice for adding color and texture to garden borders, rock gardens, and containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Veronica |
Appearance
Veronica Spicata Royal Candles grows up to 18 inches tall and wide. Its lance-shaped leaves are dark green and glossy, and grow in a rosette pattern at the base of the plant. The flower spikes rise above the foliage, and each spike is densely packed with small tubular flowers that are blue-violet in color. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden.
Care Guide
Veronica Spicata Royal Candles is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips to help you keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and mid-summer to promote healthy growth and blooming.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but performs best in slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but may produce fewer flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Veronica Spicata Royal Candles is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Veronica Spicata Royal Candles is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it may be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves and flowers of the plant. They can be controlled with slug bait or by handpicking.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and providing good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Veronica Spicata Royal Candles is native to Europe and Asia, where it grows in meadows, pastures, and along roadsides. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures and humidity levels.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Veronica Spicata Royal Candles grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots and the soil is well-drained.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Veronica Spicata Royal Candles?
A: You should fertilize the plant twice a year, in the spring and mid-summer, using a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Veronica Spicata Royal Candles tolerate drought?
A: The plant prefers moist soil and may wilt if it is not watered regularly. However, it can tolerate some drought once established.
Q: How do I propagate Veronica Spicata Royal Candles?
A: The plant can be propagated by dividing the clumps in the spring or fall. Alternatively, you can take stem cuttings in the summer and root them in moist soil.
Related Plants
- Veronicastrum virginicum
- Veronica Longifolia
- Veronicastrum Sibiricum
- Veronica Teucrium
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/speedwell/growing-speedwell-plants.htm
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/veronica-spicata-royal-candles
- https://www.hortmag.com/plants/plants-we-love/veronica-spicata-royal-candles
