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Description
Veronica Umbrosa Georgia Blue, commonly known as speedwell, is a low-growing perennial plant that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. Native to Europe and Asia, it has become a popular garden plant in North America for its striking blue flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The plant’s foliage is also attractive, with dark green leaves that form a spreading mat.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Veronica |
Appearance
Veronica Umbrosa Georgia Blue has a mat-forming habit that grows up to 6 inches tall and spreads up to 12 inches wide. The plant’s leaves are opposite, ovate, and toothed, with a glossy dark green color. The flowers are bright blue, tiny, and arranged in long spikes that rise above the foliage. The blooms are nectar-rich, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden. The plant’s blooms last for several weeks from late spring to early summer, making it a popular choice for garden borders, rock gardens, and container planting.
Care Guide
Veronica Umbrosa Georgia Blue is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:Water: Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in winter.Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: Plant Veronica Umbrosa Georgia Blue in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Amend the soil with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but blooms best in full sun.Hardiness Zones: Veronica Umbrosa Georgia Blue is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Veronica Umbrosa Georgia Blue is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to the following:Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the plant’s foliage and flowers. Use organic slug and snail bait to control them.Fungal diseases: Wet conditions can cause fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. Provide good air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Veronica Umbrosa Georgia Blue is native to Europe and Asia, where it grows in meadows, rocky slopes, and woodland edges. In North America, it is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Veronica Umbrosa Georgia Blue grow in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives adequate sunlight.Q: How often should I prune Veronica Umbrosa Georgia Blue?
A: Prune the plant after flowering to encourage bushier growth and prevent it from becoming too leggy.Q: Can Veronica Umbrosa Georgia Blue be divided?
A: Yes, the plant can be divided in spring or fall. Dig up the clump and separate it into smaller sections, replanting them in well-draining soil.Q: How tall does Veronica Umbrosa Georgia Blue grow?
A: It grows up to 6 inches tall and spreads up to 12 inches wide.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Veronica Umbrosa Georgia Blue:
- Veronica Spicata
- Veronicastrum Virginicum
- Veronica Longifolia
- Veronica Texensis
References
– The Old Farmer’s Almanac. (n.d.). Veronica. Retrieved from https://www.almanac.com/plant/veronica- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Veronica umbrosa ‘Georgia Blue’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b688
