Veronica longifolia, commonly known as long-leaved speedwell, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the Plantaginaceae family. Native to Europe and Asia, it has also been introduced and naturalized in North America. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and features lance-shaped leaves that reach up to 6 inches in length. Its small, blue-violet flowers bloom from June through August on tall spikes that rise above the foliage.
Long-leaved speedwell thrives in moist soils but can adapt to a wide range of soil types and endure both full sun and partial shade. It is often used in garden borders or naturalized areas for its attractive flowers and foliage.
This plant has been utilized in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly for its anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in treating respiratory issues such as bronchitis and asthma. Additionally, it has been applied topically to address skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
Leprechauns and four-leaf clovers have always been considered symbols of good luck. While these symbols are widely recognized, there might be one you haven't encountered before: the longleaf Speedwell. This plant has long been regarded as a good-luck charm, believed to offer protection when pinned or sewn to a traveler's clothing. FUN FACT · FROM THE LIBRARY
Overall, Veronica longifolia is a visually appealing perennial herbaceous plant with medicinal benefits, making it a favored choice among both gardeners and herbalists.
Garden speedwell is a common weed often found in gardens. Known for its fast growth, it can act as both a groundcover and, in some varieties, an ornamental plant. Its quick growth and frequent presence in gardens give it the name "garden speedwell."
Garden speedwell is fairly resistant to disease and usually does not develop illnesses. Still, it can be affected by pests and diseases present in its environment, though these problems tend to be mild. For care, this plant needs moderate attention. It should be pruned regularly to keep a neat appearance and support healthy growth. Fertilizing can also encourage flowering. Garden speedwell is suitable for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or patio, and does not demand extensive gardening experience. It may need extra attention if grown indoors.
How to keep Veronica Longifolia.
Light
Garden speedwell prefers sites that receive plenty of sunlight, promoting healthy growth. It can, however, tolerate locations with some shade. But, as with all plants, too much or too little sun can harm its growth. Its native habitat favors abundant sunlight.
Water
Longleaf Speedwell, a plant native to moist meadows, thrives best in evenly moist soil. To maintain the right soil moisture balance, it requires weekly watering. This plant adapts well to outdoor gardens where it can benefit from natural rainfall. During the growing season, providing sufficient hydration encourages lush flowering and robust growth.
Temperature
Garden speedwell prefers temperatures between 50 and 95 °F (10 to 35 °C). It is native to temperate zones and does well in moderate conditions. During colder seasons, it may benefit from extra protection, such as applying mulch around its base.
Fertilizer
Usually a single fertilizer application in spring is adequate for Garden speedwell, though repeated feedings can enhance growth. Apply fertilizer every month to every month and a half. Fertilization improves leaf appearance and function, encouraging consistent color and a healthy texture. It also promotes root development and nutrient uptake, supporting long-term plant health.
Pruning
Longleaf Speedwell showcases dense spikes of tiny blue flowers and lance-shaped leaves. For a bushier growth, prune back one-third of the plant in early spring. After the blooming period, remove spent flowers to encourage continuous flowering. Pruning not only enhances airflow and reduces the risk of disease but also promotes vibrant blooms throughout the growth cycle.
Pot & Repot
When repotting Garden speedwell, select a pot 1-2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) larger with good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring or fall, making sure the root ball is positioned slightly below the rim of the flower pot. Water thoroughly after repotting and place the pot in a warm spot with indirect sunlight.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Veronica
- Family
- Plantaginaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 6-9
- Mature Height
- 0.61 m to 1.22 m
- Mature Spread
- 30 cm to 61 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Lavender
- Flower Size
- 0.51 cm to 0.76 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer
Other names.
Reader questions.
How should I water my Longleaf Speedwell plant?
To care for the Longleaf Speedwell, it is important to water it properly. Use filtered water at room temperature or slightly warmer, as tap water may contain harmful particles. This is because the Longleaf Speedwell is native to warmer environments and cold water can be a shock. Avoid overhead watering to prevent foliage issues. Instead, water the soil directly until it is completely soaked. This method benefits the plant by moistening the roots, enabling them to spread and collect necessary nutrients.
Why is it necessary to fertilize my Longleaf Speedwell?
The Longleaf Speedwell has leaves that play a major role in its overall structure. Fertilization is a crucial way to make sure these leaves both look great and function properly. Proper fertilization will result in consistent leaf color and a healthy texture. Beyond just the visible leaves, fertilization also has effects below the soil's surface. It helps the plant generate new roots and maintain existing roots, which in turn improves the plant's ability to absorb nutrients from the soil in the future. So, fertilizing your Longleaf Speedwell not only keeps it healthy now, but also improves its long-term nutrient absorption capabilities.
What are the sunlight requirements for Longleaf Speedwell?
Longleaf Speedwell needs plenty of sunlight to thrive effectively. It prefers areas that are bathed in full sun for more than 6 hours of direct sunlight a day but can also adapt to partial sun conditions, enjoying about 3-6 hours of sunlight. It's important to watch how sunlight moves through your garden to find spots that provide a perfect balance of light and shade, ensuring your plant's happiness and growth.
What temperature range does Longleaf Speedwell prefer?
Longleaf Speedwell, also known by its botanical name Veronica longifolia, prefers a temperature range of 50 to 95°F (10 to 35°C). Originating in temperate regions, it thrives best under moderate temperatures. While it has strong cold resistance and usually doesn't require special frost protection, in colder seasons, benefits can be seen from applying extra protection, such as mulching around its base. During winter, if temperatures are expected to drop below -25°C, cold protection by covering the plant with soil or straw is advisable. It's also recommended to water the plant abundantly before the first freeze in autumn to keep the soil moist, helping the plant prevent drought and water scarcity during winter and early spring.
What do I do if I give my Longleaf Speedwell too much or too little water?
Both overwatering and underwatering can harm the health of your Longleaf Speedwell, but overwatering is more common. Overwatering causes wilting, yellowing, and can lead to diseases like root rot, mold, and mildew that can kill the plant. Underwatering is less likely, as the plant is drought-tolerant, but it can cause brittle and brown leaves. It's important to recognize the signs of overwatering early on. Some diseases caused by overwatering, like root rot, may be irreversible if not addressed promptly. Reduce your watering schedule and check the soil's drainage if overwatering is suspected. If underwatering is evident, water more regularly until signs improve.
When should I fertilize my Longleaf Speedwell plant?
To properly fertilize your Longleaf Speedwell, wait for new growth to appear in early spring. This is your cue to start fertilizing for the year. While a single application of fertilizer may be sufficient for most plants, if you want your Longleaf Speedwell to thrive, consider feeding it multiple times throughout the spring and early summer. Aim to fertilize approximately once every month to a month and a half for optimal growth.
Can Longleaf Speedwell grow in artificial lighting?
Yes, Longleaf Speedwell can grow under artificial lighting, which becomes crucial, especially in winter or less sunny spaces where natural sunlight is insufficient. LED lights are recommended for their ability to be customized to provide specific wavelengths needed by plants. For full sun plants, 30-50W/sq ft of artificial light is needed; partial sun plants require 20-30W/sq ft, and full shade plants need 10-20W/sq ft. The light source should be placed 12-36 inches above the plant to mimic natural sunlight, with 8-12 hours of light per day to ensure optimal growth.
What should I do if Longleaf Speedwell is exposed to temperatures below its preferred range?
Longleaf Speedwell is cold-tolerant and best suited to temperatures above 10°C. In winter, temperatures should ideally be kept above -15°C. If temperatures fall below -25°C, you may not notice immediate changes, but there could be a decrease in sprouting or no sprouting at all when spring arrives. The remedy for this is to wait until spring and then remove any parts of the plant that have failed to sprout.
How many times in a week should I water my Longleaf Speedwell?
If your Longleaf Speedwell plant is in a pot, the best way to check if it needs water is by sticking your finger into the soil. If the top two to three inches of soil feel dry, it's time to water it. If you're growing the plant outdoors in the ground, you can use the same method. When the first few inches of soil have dried out, it's time to add water. Typically, during spring and early fall, watering once a week should suffice. However, during extremely hot weather, you may need to water it twice a week or more. Keep in mind that mature Longleaf Speedwell plants have a remarkable ability to withstand drought.
When is it not a good idea to add fertilizer to my Longleaf Speedwell?
During the late fall and winter, your Longleaf Speedwell goes into a dormant phase and stops growing. It is best not to fertilize during this time. In the spring and summer, if you choose to fertilize multiple times, start reducing the amount of fertilizer as summer approaches because the growth rate of your Longleaf Speedwell will also slow down. In general, it is not recommended to fertilize when the weather is extremely hot or when the soil is very dry. Fertilizing in such conditions can stress your Longleaf Speedwell and cause it to die prematurely.
What are the symptoms of light deficiency in Longleaf Speedwell?
Symptoms of light deficiency in Longleaf Speedwell include smaller new leaves, leggy or sparse growth, faster leaf drop, slower or no new growth, lighter-colored new leaves, and Chlorosis, which is the yellowing of the leaves due to inadequate sunlight. Excessive sunlight can cause symptoms like sunscald, leaf curling, wilting, and leaf scorching. These indicate that the plant is not receiving the right balance of light.
How should I care for Longleaf Speedwell in high temperatures?
During summer, it's important to ensure that Longleaf Speedwell's environment does not exceed 35°C. Exposure to temperatures above 38°C may result in the leaves becoming lighter in color, curling, becoming prone to sunburn, and, in severe cases, leading to the entire plant wilting and drying out. To mitigate these issues, trim away sunburned and dried-up parts of the plant. It's also beneficial to move the plant to a location with shade from the midday and afternoon sun, or to use a shade cloth. Ensure the soil remains moist by watering the plant in the morning and evening.
