Culver's root Veronicastrum virginicum f. roseum 'Pink Glow'
ABOUT
The plant commonly referred to as Culver's root features elegant spires of small, tubular flowers that exhibit a charming soft pink hue, which is where the name 'Pink Glow' comes from. This pink shade is a slight variation from its typical white or light blue relatives. Each flower is neatly arranged in whorls around the central stem, creating an attractive, densely packed floral display. The flower spikes typically bloom in the warmer months, adding a burst of color to gardens. The foliage of Culver's root is equally attractive, with lance-shaped leaves that are deeply veined and arranged in a distinctive whorled pattern along the plant's strong, upright stems. The leaves are often a rich green that contrasts beautifully with the delicate pink of the blooms. The plant typically has a bushy habit, with the foliage and flower spikes emerging in an impressive, vertical fashion. Despite its robust presence, it imparts an airy feel to the landscape due to the open, feathery nature of the flower spikes. As a perennial, it returns each year, assuming a prominent role in garden borders or naturalized areas with its appealing texture and color..nickname
About this plant
- Names
Family
Plantaginaceae
Synonyms
Culver's Root, Virginia Culver's Root, Tall Veronica, Bowman's Root
Common names
Veronica virginica f. rosea 'Pink Glow', Veronicastrum virginicum var. roseum 'Pink Glow'.
- Toxicity
To humans
Culver's root is generally not considered toxic to humans. There are no significant reports of poisoning or adverse effects due to ingestion of Culver's root. Therefore, incidental contact or ingestion in small quantities should pose little to no risk. However, as with any plant not typically used for consumption, individual allergic reactions or sensitivities could occur.
To pets
Culver's root is not known to be toxic to pets. It is not listed as a harmful plant to animals such as dogs and cats. As with humans, the consumption of non-food plants can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset in pets, but there are no widespread reports of serious poisoning from this plant. If a pet were to ingest a large quantity of Culver's root, it might experience mild digestive discomfort, but significant toxicity is not expected.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4-7 feet [1.2-2.1 meters]
Spread
2-4 feet [0.6-1.2 meters]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
North America
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Attracts Wildlife: Veronicastrum virginicum ‘Pink Glow’ is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators to the garden.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its elegant, tall spires of soft pink flowers, this plant adds height and color to borders and beds, enhancing the visual interest of garden landscapes.
- Low Maintenance: This cultivar is relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it is drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for gardens in drier climates or for water-wise gardening practices.
- Long Blooming Period: It has a long flowering period from mid to late summer, providing sustained blooms during a time when many other plants may be fading.
- Structural Element: Its strong, vertical growing habit provides an architectural element to garden designs, offering contrast to lower-growing plants and those with a more sprawling habit.
- Native Planting: As a native species, planting Veronicastrum virginicum ‘Pink Glow’ supports local ecosystems and can be a part of native and wildflower gardening initiatives.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Culinary Garnish: The delicate pink flowers of Culver's root can be used to add a touch of elegance to salads and desserts.
- Natural Fabric Dye: The roots or flowers can be boiled to produce a natural dye for fabric, yielding subtle color shades.
- Educational Tool: Botany students can study Culver's root to learn about plant morphology and the characteristics of the Plantaginaceae family.
- Photography Subject: With its striking spires of pink flowers, Culver's root is an excellent subject for photographers specializing in botanical and garden photography.
- Feng Shui: Some practitioners use the plant to create a sense of balance and harmony in the garden, according to Feng Shui principles.
- Artistic Inspiration: The flowers and overall form of Culver's root can inspire artists and be used as a model for botanical illustrations.
- Wildlife Habitat: The plant can be incorporated into wildlife gardens to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
- Seasonal Celebrations: In some cultures, the blooms of Culver's root might be used as decorations during particular seasonal festivals or celebrations.
- Floral Arrangements: Although not a traditional cut flower, Culver's root can add height and interest to floral arrangements when used fresh or dried.
- Soil Erosion Control: This deep-rooted plant can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes in gardens and natural areas.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
Culver's root is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
Culver's root is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Simplicity: Veronica, commonly known as Culver's root, often symbolizes simplicity due to its unadorned, upright spikes of flowers that exemplify straightforward beauty.
- Healing: Historically used for medicinal purposes, Culver's root denotes healing, reflecting its use in traditional remedies.
- Fidelity: The plant's consistent and reliable blooming can be symbolic of fidelity, indicating steadfastness and loyalty in relationships.
- Connection to nature: Growing naturally in wildflower meadows and prairies, Culver's root represents a deep connection to the natural world and the untamed beauty of native landscapes.
- Water
For Culver's Root 'Pink Glow,' regular watering is crucial to maintain its growth and health, especially when establishing the plant. Aim to water the plant deeply once a week, providing about one to one and a half gallons of water each time, depending on soil conditions and climate. During hot and dry periods, watering frequency should increase to twice a week. Ensure the plant has well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging. In the winter, reduce watering as the plant's growth slows down and it requires less moisture.
- Light
Culver's Root 'Pink Glow' thrives best in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot is one where it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, but it can also tolerate some light afternoon shade. Avoid deeply shaded areas which can lead to poor flowering and weak growth.
- Temperature
Culver's Root 'Pink Glow' is hardy and can withstand a temperature range from a minimum of about -40°F to a maximum of around 90°F. The ideal temperature for robust growth is between 60°F and 75°F. Ensure it is planted in a location where it is protected from extreme heat or cold to maintain its health and vitality.
- Pruning
Pruning Culver's Root 'Pink Glow' encourages new growth and promotes a bushier plant with more flower spikes. Prune in late winter or early spring, removing any dead or damaged stems and shaping the plant as desired. Pruning can be done annually, and the best time is just before new growth begins.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Culver's Root 'Pink Glow' thrives in rich, moist, well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.8. A mix of garden soil, compost, and a bit of sand or perlite for improved drainage constitutes an ideal soil mixture for this perennial.
- Repotting
Culver's Root 'Pink Glow' does not typically require frequent repotting as it is mostly grown outdoors. However, if grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot.
- Humidity & Misting
Culver's Root 'Pink Glow' prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to a range of conditions; it will thrive in the humidity levels typically found in outdoor garden settings.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Place Culver’s Root ‘Pink Glow’ in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to partial shade in moist soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA.
- Life cycle
The life cycle of Veronicastrum virginicum f. roseum 'Pink Glow', commonly known as Culver's root, begins with germination, which occurs when its seeds are sown in soil and exposed to the right conditions of moisture and temperature. After germination, the seedling grows into a juvenile plant, developing a rosette of leaves near the soil surface. The plant then enters a vegetative stage, where it focuses on leaf and stem growth, gradually maturing and forming a sturdy upright habit. As it enters the reproductive stage, usually in the second year, Veronicastrum virginicum produces tall flowering spikes with pink flowers in mid to late summer, attracting pollinators. After pollination, seeds are produced and dispersed, completing the reproductive cycle. Finally, as a perennial, the plant enters a period of dormancy during the winter months, with above-ground growth dying back and the root system remaining alive underground to regrow the following spring.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Culver's Root, specifically the Veronicastrum virginicum f. roseum 'Pink Glow', is through division. Division is usually done in early spring or fall when the plant is not in active growth. Dig up the mature clump carefully, ensuring that you keep a good amount of roots intact. Then, using a sharp spade or knife, divide the clump into smaller sections, each with at least two or three growing points or shoots. Replant these divisions promptly at the same depth they were growing previously, spacing them about 18 to 24 inches (46 to 61 cm) apart to allow for ample growth. Water them well to help establish the new transplants. This method is reliable and helps to rejuvenate older clumps that might have become woody or less vigorous.