Origin
The plant Veronica catenata Pennell var. glandulosa (Farw.) Pennell is native to the western United States, specifically found in areas such as California, Nevada, Utah, and Colorado. It can typically be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, sagebrush-steppe, and subalpine forests.
Common Names
Veronica catenata Pennell var. glandulosa is commonly known as Yadon's piperia, sticky speedwell, and glandular speedwell.
Uses
There are various uses for Veronica catenata Pennell var. glandulosa, including its use as a medicinal plant in Native American culture. The plant has been used to treat ailments such as respiratory and digestive issues. It is also used for its ornamental value, as it produces beautiful, violet-blue flowers during the summer months.
Appearance
Veronica catenata Pennell var. glandulosa is a low-growing perennial herb that typically grows up to 10 inches in height. The plant has narrow leaves that are dark green in color and are covered in small glandular hairs. It produces small, violet-blue flowers that are arranged in a raceme on a single stalk. The plant's stem and leaves are sticky to the touch due to the glandular hairs that cover them.
Light Requirements
Veronica catenata Pennell var. glandulosa thrives in full to partial sunlight. It requires a minimum of six hours of sunlight per day to grow and flower properly. In areas with hot summers, however, this plant benefits from some afternoon shade to prevent wilting.
Temperature Requirements
Veronica catenata Pennell var. glandulosa prefers a cool to a warm climate. It grows best in areas with a temperature range of 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Extreme cold or heat can damage the plant. Therefore, it is essential to protect the plant from frost during the winter months.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. It thrives in nutrient-rich soils but can tolerate poor, infertile soil. The ideal pH range for Veronica catenata Pennell var. glandulosa is between 5.5 and 6.5. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. Adding organic matter, such as compost, to the soil before planting can improve soil structure and fertility.
Cultivation:
Veronica catenata Pennell var. glandulosa (Farw.) Pennell is a perennial plant native to the southeastern United States. It grows best in full sun to partial shade. The plant prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil, but it can tolerate poor soil conditions. It can be grown in containers or in the ground.Watering Needs:
While Veronica catenata Pennell var. glandulosa (Farw.) Pennell is moderately drought-tolerant, it performs best when its soil is kept moist. Water the plant regularly, but be sure not to overwater it. Too much water can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.Fertilization:
Veronica catenata Pennell var. glandulosa (Farw.) Pennell doesn't require a lot of fertilizer, but applying a general-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season can help encourage healthy growth. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and methods.Pruning:
Pruning Veronica catenata Pennell var. glandulosa (Farw.) Pennell is not necessary, but removing spent flower spikes can help encourage additional blooms. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make cuts just above a node or bud. Avoid cutting back more than a third of the plant's overall growth in any given year.Propagation of Veronica catenata Pennell var. glandulosa (Farw.) Pennell
Veronica catenata Pennell var. glandulosa (Farw.) Pennell, also known as the glandular-creeping speedwell, can be propagated through several methods including seed propagation, division, and cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Veronica catenata Pennell var. glandulosa can be sowed directly into the soil during spring or fall. The soil should be well-drained, moist, and fertile. The seeds should be sowed at a depth that is equivalent to twice their size. Germination usually occurs within 2 to 3 weeks.
Division
Division can be done during spring or fall. The plant should be dug up and the roots separated into clumps. Each clump should have several healthy roots and shoots. The clumps can be replanted at a spacing of 30 to 45 cm apart.
Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken during the summer season. The cuttings should be about 10 cm in length and should be taken from healthy shoots. The leaves at the base of the cutting should be removed and the cutting should be inserted about 2 cm deep into a well-drained potting mix. The cutting should be kept moist and should root within 2 to 3 weeks.
Disease Management
Veronica catenata Pennell var. glandulosa (Farw.) Pennell is a hardy plant that is not commonly affected by diseases. However, there are a few diseases that may affect the plant. One such disease is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew appears as a white or grey powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to keep the plant dry and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used to manage the disease if it persists.
Pest Management
Veronica catenata Pennell var. glandulosa (Farw.) Pennell is also relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few pests that may affect the plant. One such pest is spider mites. Spider mites are tiny pests that can be identified by the fine webbing they leave on the plant. They feed on the plant, causing yellowing and browning of the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is important to keep the plant well-watered and avoid stressing it. Beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can also be introduced to the garden to eat the spider mites.
