Origin
Veronica comosa Richter var. glandulosa (Farw.) Boivin, also commonly known as Glandular Speedwell, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. It is native to the western United States, specifically in Arizona, California, Colorado, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming.
Common Names
Glandular Speedwell is also known by other common names such as Sticky Speedwell and Common Speedwell.
Uses
The Glandular Speedwell is not commonly used for medicinal or culinary purposes. However, it is an attractive species that provides benefits for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
General Appearance
The Glandular Speedwell is a small, herbaceous perennial that grows up to 30 cm tall. It has a spreading habit and can form small colonies in the wild. This species usually blooms from March to September, producing many small flowers that are pale blue or violet in color. The flowers are arranged in terminal spikes and have a tubular shape with four lobes. The leaves of the Glandular Speedwell are linear to lanceolate and are oblong to ovate in shape. They are dark green in color and have a glossy appearance. The stem of this species is pubescent, glandular, and often reddish in color.
Growth Conditions for Veronica comosa Richter var. glandulosa (Farw.) Boivin
Light: Veronica comosa Richter var. glandulosa (Farw.) Boivin grows best in partial to full sunlight. In its natural habitat, it is typically found in areas that receive ample sunlight. Therefore, it should be placed in a location that receives bright sunlight for a few hours every day.
Temperature: This plant requires moderate temperatures and prefers a cooler environment. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 15°C to 20°C. It can tolerate higher temperatures but may require extra care like more watering. Too much heat can lead to the drying of the soil and damage to the leaves.
Soil Requirements: Veronica comosa Richter var. glandulosa (Farw.) Boivin plants prefer a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix that is lightly acidic to neutral, with a pH in the range of 6 to 7.5, is ideal for optimal growth. The soil should not be allowed to dry completely as it can lead to wilted leaves. However, care should be taken not to overwater the plant as too much moisture can cause root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Veronica comosa Richter var. glandulosa (Farw.) Boivin prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It can grow in either full sun or partial shade. When planting, make sure to space the plants at least 12 inches apart to prevent overcrowding. You can propagate this plant by either dividing the roots in spring or taking stem cuttings in summer.Watering Needs
This plant requires moderate watering and prefers to be kept consistently moist. However, it's important not to overwater as the roots can rot. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months when the plant is dormant.Fertilization
Veronica comosa Richter var. glandulosa (Farw.) Boivin doesn't require much fertilization. You can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the early spring and mid-summer. Make sure not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and fewer blooms.Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Veronica comosa Richter var. glandulosa (Farw.) Boivin, but deadheading spent blooms can encourage new growth and prolong the blooming period. In the fall, you can cut back the plant to ground level to prepare it for the winter dormancy period.Propagation of Veronica comosa Richter var. glandulosa (Farw.) Boivin
Veronica comosa Richter var. glandulosa (Farw.) Boivin can be propagated by several methods, such as seed sowing, division, and stem cuttings.
Seed Sowing
The seeds of Veronica comosa Richter var. glandulosa (Farw.) Boivin can be sown in the spring or fall. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water overnight to help with germination. The seeds should be sown 1/8 inch deep in a well-draining soil mixture. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate.
Division
Veronica comosa Richter var. glandulosa (Farw.) Boivin can also be propagated by division. This method is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. To do this, the plant should be lifted from the ground and the roots carefully separated into smaller sections. These sections can then be replanted in their new location.
Stem Cuttings
An alternative method of propagation is through stem cuttings. This method is best done in the summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a 3-6 inch piece of stem just below a leaf node and remove the lower leaves. The cutting should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept moist until roots form. Once the cutting has rooted, it can be moved to its permanent location.
Disease Management
Veronica comosa Richter var. glandulosa (Farw.) Boivin is relatively resistant to many plant diseases. However, there are still some common diseases that can affect the plant, such as:
- Leaf spot - characterized by brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and avoid getting water on the leaves during watering.
- Root rot - caused by fungi that thrive in wet soil. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage.
- Powdery mildew - characterized by white powdery growth on the leaves. To manage this disease, keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid overcrowding.
Pest Management
Veronica comosa Richter var. glandulosa (Farw.) Boivin is also relatively resistant to many pests. However, there are still some common pests that can affect the plant, such as:
- Aphids - small insects that suck the sap from the plant. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites - tiny pests that spin webs and suck the sap from the plant. To manage this pest, keep the plant well-hydrated and use insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars - larvae of moths or butterflies that eat the leaves of the plant. To manage this pest, remove them by hand or use Bacillus thuringiensis.
Regular monitoring of the plant can help in the early detection and management of plant diseases and pests. Using organic and non-toxic solutions can also help in managing these problems without harming the environment and the plant itself.
