Veronica Townsonii
Contents
Description
Veronica Townsonii is a perennial plant that belongs to the family of Plantaginaceae. It is a hybrid plant that was discovered in 1969, and it is native to western North America. The plant is named after Veronica Townson, a renowned horticulturist who specialized in alpine plants. Veronica Townsonii is a beautiful plant that is ideal for borders, rock gardens, or as ground cover due to its low growing habit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Veronica |
Appearance
Veronica Townsonii has a low growing habit and forms a mat of bright green foliage. The leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and toothed, and they grow up to 2.5 cm long. The plant produces spikes of deep blue flowers that bloom from late spring to mid-summer. The flowers are held above the foliage, and they are popular with bees and other pollinators. Veronica Townsonii can grow up to 10 cm tall and spread up to 60 cm wide.
Care Guide
Veronica Townsonii is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Veronica Townsonii prefers moist but well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Veronica Townsonii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Veronica Townsonii is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Veronica Townsonii is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it is susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained soil. Some common pests that may affect this plant include spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies.
Habitat
Veronica Townsonii is native to western North America, where it grows in rocky and gravelly soils in alpine meadows and subalpine forests. The plant is adapted to cold and harsh climates and can withstand winter temperatures as low as -34°C.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Veronica Townsonii grow in containers?
A: Yes, Veronica Townsonii can grow in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s growth.
Q: What is the best time to plant Veronica Townsonii?
A: The best time to plant Veronica Townsonii is in early spring or fall.
Q: How often should I fertilize Veronica Townsonii?
A: Fertilize Veronica Townsonii once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Veronica Townsonii?
A: Veronica Townsonii can be propagated by division or stem cuttings taken in early summer.
Related Plants
- Veronica spicata
- Veronica umbrosa
- Veronica pinnata
- Veronica longifolia
References
- Plants of the Pacific Northwest Coast by Pojar and Mackinnon
- The Plant List: A Working List of All Plant Species
- RHS Plant Finder
