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Description
Veronica Spicata Subsp. Spicata, also known as spike speedwell, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to Europe and Asia. It belongs to the Plantaginaceae family and is a popular garden plant due to its attractive blooms and easy care. It can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Veronica |
Appearance
The spike speedwell has long, slender spikes of tiny blue or purple flowers that bloom from early to mid-summer. The flowers are arranged in dense, spike-like clusters and have prominent stamens protruding from them. The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, with a dark green color and slightly serrated edges. The plant has a bushy habit and can form clumps over time.
Care Guide
Veronica Spicata Subsp. Spicata is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions:
- Water: Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to light shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Hardy in zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Veronica Spicata Subsp. Spicata is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally be affected by:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Crown rot: This fungal disease can be caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil. Remove affected plants and improve soil drainage.
Habitat
Veronica Spicata Subsp. Spicata grows naturally in meadows, pastures, and open woodlands in Europe and Asia. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types and growing conditions, and is often used in naturalistic or cottage-style gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Veronica Spicata Subsp. Spicata a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Veronica Spicata Subsp. Spicata is a great plant for attracting bees and butterflies to the garden.
Q: Can Veronica Spicata Subsp. Spicata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Veronica Spicata Subsp. Spicata can be grown in containers as long as they are at least 12 inches deep and have drainage holes.
Q: How often should Veronica Spicata Subsp. Spicata be divided?
A: Veronica Spicata Subsp. Spicata can be divided every 3-4 years in the spring.
Q: Does Veronica Spicata Subsp. Spicata have any medicinal properties?
A: Some species of Veronica have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, but there is no evidence to suggest that Veronica Spicata Subsp. Spicata has any medicinal properties.
Related Plants
- Veronicastrum virginicum
- Veronica longifolia
- Veronica umbrosa
- Veronica gentianoides
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Veronica Spicata. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281327&isprofile=0&basic=Veronica%20spicata
- RHS. (2021). Veronica Spicata. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/7068/veronica-spicata/details
- University of Wisconsin-Madison. (n.d.). Veronica Spicata. Retrieved from https://wimastergardener.org/article/spike-speedwell-veronica-spicata/
