Persian Speedwell
veronica persica
Also known as: ["Persian speedwell","bird's eye","winter speedwell"]
Overview
A low-growing, creeping annual herb with small blue flowers and heart-shaped leaves, often found in lawns and disturbed areas.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus: | Veronica |
| Botanical Name: | Veronica persica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: ground cover in garden beds or lawns
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, or every 2–3 months during active growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in bright indirect light indoors; outdoors, provide afternoon shade in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even light; avoid direct midday sun; adjust for seasonal light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water only when the top inch of soil is dry; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with perlite if needed.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoids extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool to moderate temps.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during growing season; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; apply to moist soil.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of runners.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting or runner.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or perlite and peat moss mix.
Hormone
Optional, but can help speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back leggy stems; pinch tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water at base; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting the foliage. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback if below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in cold weather; provide a warm, sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicVeronica persica is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicVeronica persica is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicVeronica persica, commonly known as Persian speedwell, is not considered toxic to humans. It is a small, low-growing plant often found in lawns and gardens.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Veronica persica invasive?
A: Yes, it can be invasive in lawns and gardens due to its rapid spreading habit.
Q: Does Persian Speedwell attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its small blue flowers attract bees and other pollinators.
Q: How do I control Veronica persica in my lawn?
A: Regular mowing and hand-pulling can help control its spread; herbicides may also be used if necessary.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Plantaginaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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