Small-leaved Speedwell
veronica sublobata
Also known as: ["Small-leaved Veronica"]
Overview
A low-growing herbaceous plant with small, rounded leaves and delicate blue flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus: | Veronica |
| Botanical Name: | Veronica sublobata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; trim back up to one-third of the plant to rejuvenate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; for indoor plants, place near east or north-facing windows; outdoor plants benefit from dappled sunlight in midday.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; apply fertilizer to moist soil to avoid root burn; stop feeding in late autumn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for aeration.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and improve air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/damaged stems, cut above nodes, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refreshment.
Checklist
Choose new pot, prepare fresh soil, inspect roots, water after repotting, place in shade temporarily.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use a layer of gravel at the pot bottom.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback; roots become susceptible to rot in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots with bubble wrap, avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, and increased water demand in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growing season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicVeronica sublobata is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicVeronica sublobata is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicVeronica sublobata is not known to exhibit toxic properties in humans. It has not been documented to cause adverse physiological effects when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Veronica sublobata invasive?
A: Yes, it can be considered invasive in some regions due to its rapid spreading habit.
Q: Does Veronica sublobata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should Veronica sublobata be watered?
A: It prefers moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Plantaginaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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