Origin
Veronica peregrina L. var. typica Pennell, also known as common speedwell or American speedwell, is an annual plant native to Europe but widely distributed in North America.
Common Names
Common speedwell is also commonly known by other names such as field speedwell, bird's eye, gypsyweed, winterweed, and fluellin.
Uses
The plant has a long history of medicinal use and is commonly used as an herbal remedy for respiratory and digestive ailments. It is also known to have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Common speedwell is commonly used as a cover crop, as well as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping.
General Appearance
Common speedwell is a small plant that typically grows to about 10-30cm in height. Its leaves are small and oval-shaped, and the plant produces small blue or purple flowers that are arranged in clusters. The flowers typically bloom from May to September. Common speedwell is an annual plant that is commonly found in fields, meadows, gardens, and along roadsides.
Light Requirements
Veronica peregrina L. var. typica Pennell thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade as well. It can grow in locations with bright direct sunlight but also in areas with indirect light.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows best in a temperate climate with mild temperatures, an average of 60-70°F (15-21°C), and high humidity. It thrives in areas with a mild winter, where temperatures do not drop below 40°F (4°C). Veronica peregrina L. var. typica Pennell can withstand occasional frosts, but prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
Veronica peregrina L. var. typica Pennell can grow well in different types of soil, but it prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and provide good aeration to the plant's roots. This variety can tolerate soil conditions that are poor in nutrients and slightly dry. However, adding organic matter to the soil can improve growth.
Cultivation Methods
Veronica peregrina L. var. typica Pennell prefers to grow in well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. It can grow in full sun as well as partial shade. The plant should be grown from seeds or cuttings. Sow the seeds in early spring or autumn. Once the seeds sprout, it takes about 10 to 15 days for the plant to germinate. Veronica peregrina L. var. typica Pennell can be grown indoors in pots or outdoors in gardens or containers.
Watering Needs
It is essential to water Veronica peregrina L. var. typica Pennell regularly. However, the plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant when the topsoil is dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater, as the plant may develop root rot or other diseases.
Fertilization
Veronica peregrina L. var. typica Pennell requires fertilization once a year during the growing season. Use a slow-release fertilizer or organic compost. Apply the fertilizer or compost around the base of the plant and mix it into the topsoil. Avoid getting fertilizer on the leaves as it may burn them.
Pruning
It is essential to prune Veronica peregrina L. var. typica Pennell regularly to promote growth and prevent the plant from becoming overgrown. Cut back any dead, damaged, or diseased leaves or stems. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. You can also trim the plant after flowering to encourage additional blooms. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Veronica peregrina L. var. typica Pennell
Veronica peregrina L. var. typica Pennell is typically propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. Both methods are relatively simple and can yield successful results.
Propagation via Seeds
The propagation of Veronica peregrina L. var. typica Pennell through seeds can be done in either fall or early spring. It is best to plant the seeds outside directly in the soil where the plant is intended to grow, as transplanting may disturb the development of the seedlings. The soil should be moist and well-draining to promote healthy seed growth. The seeds should be spread evenly on the soil surface and lightly covered with a layer of soil or compost. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which typically takes around 2-3 weeks.
Propagation via Stem Cuttings
The propagation of Veronica peregrina L. var. typica Pennell through stem cuttings involves taking a cut portion of the plant and planting it in compost or soil to root. This method can be done at any time during the growing season when the plant is actively growing. The cutting should be taken from healthy, disease-free stems that are around 4-6 inches in length with a few leaves attached. It is important to remove the leaves from the lower portion of the cutting and to dip the cut stem in a rooting hormone to stimulate growth. The cutting should then be planted in moist compost or soil and kept in a warm, humid environment until roots have formed. This typically takes around 2-3 weeks.
Disease Management
Veronica peregrina L. var. typica Pennell is typically resistant to diseases. However, if the plant gets infected, the common diseases that might affect it are:
- Rust - This fungal disease creates orange, powdery spots on leaves. To manage the disease, remove the infected parts of the plant and destroy them. Ensure that the plant is adequately watered but not overwatered.
- Leaf spot - Usually caused by the fungi Cercospora or Septoria, leaf spot creates brown, circular spots on the leaves. Manage by removing the infected parts of the plant and destroying them. Use a fungicide if the problem persists.
- Mildew - Mildew is a fungal disease that destroys the foliage. To manage it, prune the infected parts of the plant, ensure proper drainage, and space the plants to increase air circulation.
Pest Management
Although Veronica peregrina L. var. typica Pennell doesn't have many pest problems, the following pests may affect it:
- Slugs and snails - These pests can eat the leaves and flowers. To manage them, handpick them and drop them into soapy water. Place copper barriers around the plants.
- Aphids - They suck the sap from the plant, which weakens it. To manage them, use a strong sprayer of water to remove them from the leaves. Alternatively, introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
- Spider mites - They create tiny webs on the foliage and suck the juices from the plant. To manage them, spray the plants with a mixture of water and insecticidal soap. Increase humidity around the plant by spraying water mist or putting the pot on pebbles in a tray of water.
