Overview
Veronica ×lackschewitzii Keller, commonly known as Lackschewitz's speedwell, is a hybrid perennial plant resulting from a cross between Veronica spicata and Veronica longifolia. It is a member of the Plantaginaceae family. This plant is highly valued for its long blooming period, showy flowers, and ease of cultivation.Origin
Veronica ×lackschewitzii Keller was first observed growing in a botanical garden in Göttingen, Germany in the 1980s. The plant was later named after its discoverer, the German botanist Werner Lackschewitz.Common Names
Lackschewitz's speedwell is sometimes referred to as Veronica Lackschewitz, Spiked Speedwell, or Long-leaf Speedwell.Uses
Due to its attractive appearance, Lackschewitz's speedwell is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens. It is also used in cut flower arrangements. The plant is also known to have medicinal properties, and has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments including skin diseases, respiratory conditions, and digestive problems.Appearance
The plant typically grows to a height of 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60cm) and spreads to a width of 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30cm). It has dark green, lance-shaped leaves that are arranged in pairs along the stem. The showy flowers, which are produced in abundance during the summer months, are a deep shade of blue with a white eye and are arranged in long spikes. This plant is hardy to USDA zones 4 through 8.Light Requirements
Veronica ×lackschewitzii Keller requires full sunlight or partial shade conditions. The plant can tolerate shade, but full sun exposure encourages robust growth and flowering. For maximum growth and flowering, it is recommended to plant in areas that receive at least six to eight hours of sunlight daily.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows well in a temperature range of 15-25°C. While it can tolerate slightly higher temperatures, it needs to be in a humid and shaded environment. On the other hand, the plant is frost-tolerant and can survive in temperatures as low as -5°C, but in such conditions, it might enter a state of dormancy.
Soil Requirements
Veronica ×lackschewitzii Keller grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic material. It prefers neutral to slightly acidic soils with a pH ranging between 6.0 to 7.0. The soil must be moist but not wet, and the plant requires frequent watering. Sandy loams are also suitable for this plant, as they retain moisture while ensuring proper drainage.
Cultivation of Veronica ×lackschewitzii Keller
Veronica ×lackschewitzii Keller is a herbaceous perennial plant that is easy to cultivate. It requires full sun or partial shade and well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant is hardy and can tolerate fluctuating temperatures and soil moisture levels.
Watering Needs of Veronica ×lackschewitzii Keller
Veronica ×lackschewitzii Keller needs regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. The plant prefers moist soil that is not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil moisture levels. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization of Veronica ×lackschewitzii Keller
Fertilize Veronica ×lackschewitzii Keller in the spring with a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This will promote healthy growth and flowering. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions and water the plant thoroughly after applying the fertilizer.
Pruning of Veronica ×lackschewitzii Keller
Prune Veronica ×lackschewitzii Keller in the late fall or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged stems and cut back the remaining stems to a height of 6 inches above the ground to encourage bushy growth and more flowers. You can also deadhead the plant throughout the growing season to promote continuous flowering.
Propagation of Veronica ×lackschewitzii Keller
Veronica ×lackschewitzii Keller is a hybrid plant that is propagated through vegetative means only. The plant produces sterile seeds, which makes propagation through seed difficult. Therefore, the most reliable and commonly used method of propagation is by vegetative cuttings.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation involves taking cuttings from young, healthy stems of the plant and rooting them to form new plants. This method is effective because the cuttings are genetically identical to the parent plant, and therefore maintain the same characteristics and traits.
The best time to take cuttings is in early to mid-summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from the tips of the stems, just below a node. The stems should be 4 to 6 inches long and have several leaves attached.
Before planting, the lower leaves should be removed, leaving only a couple of leaves on the top. Then, the cuttings can be planted in a well-draining potting mix, such as a mixture of peat moss and perlite.
The cuttings should be kept moist and warm until they develop roots. This can take several weeks to a couple of months. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Overall, vegetative propagation is the most successful method of propagating Veronica ×lackschewitzii Keller and is relatively easy to do with a little patience and care.
Disease Management
Veronica ×lackschewitzii Keller is generally a healthy plant with few known diseases. However, it may occasionally become susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot.
To manage fungal diseases, it is important to maintain good cultural practices, such as proper spacing of plants, adequate water and drainage, and good air circulation. Infected leaves and branches should be pruned off and disposed of, and the plant should be treated with a fungicide according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Pest Management
Veronica ×lackschewitzii Keller is relatively pest-resistant, but it may occasionally fall prey to insects like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
To manage insect pests, it is important to monitor the plant regularly, inspecting the foliage and stems for signs of infestation. If pests are detected early, they can be removed by hand or hosed off with a strong stream of water. Insecticidal soap or a neem oil spray can also be effective in controlling infestations.
It is important to avoid using broad-spectrum insecticides as they can harm beneficial insects that may help control the pest population. Chemical pesticides should be used as a last resort and only when necessary to avoid harming the ecosystem and the plant itself.
