Digger speedwell Parahebe perfoliata

Water

Digger's speedwell, scientifically known as Parahebe perfoliata, requires moderate watering to maintain evenly moist soil, especially during its growing season in spring and summer. Watering once a week with approximately 1 gallon of water per plant should suffice, but always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering. During the hotter months, you might need to water more frequently, while in the cooler months, water less as the plant requires. Overwatering can be detrimental, so ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.

Light

Digger's speedwell thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant is where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. However, in regions with very intense sun, some afternoon shade will help protect the plant from excessive stress. Avoid deep shade locations as this will inhibit the growth and flowering of Parahebe perfoliata.

Temperature

Digger's speedwell prefers temperate climates with temperatures ideally between 50°F and 75°F. While it can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20°F, ensure that the plant is protected from frost, which can damage its foliage and stems. The maximum temperature tolerated is up to about 85°F, beyond which the plant may require additional shade and water to prevent heat stress.

Pruning

Pruning Digger's speedwell is important to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. It should be pruned lightly after flowering to remove spent blooms and any leggy stems. The best time for a more thorough prune is in late winter or early spring, which helps invigorate the plant for the coming season. Pruning can be done annually or as needed to keep a tidy appearance.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Digger's Speedwell thrives best in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0-7.0. A good soil mix for Digger's Speedwell could consist of a combination of loam, coarse sand or perlite, and organic compost to ensure drainage and fertility.

Repotting

Digger's Speedwell does not need frequent repotting and should be repotted only when it has outgrown its current container. Generally, repotting every 2-3 years is adequate to refresh the soil and accommodate the growth of the plant.

Humidity & Misting

Digger's Speedwell prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable to different humidity conditions. It does not require a highly humid environment to thrive; typical indoor humidity levels are usually sufficient.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright indirect light and ensure well-draining soil for growing indoors.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun to light shade; well-drained soil is crucial.

• Hardiness zone

  8-10 USDA

Life cycle

Parahebe perfoliata, commonly known as Digger's Speedwell, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which occurs in well-drained soil and under conditions of mild temperatures and sufficient moisture. After germination, seedlings emerge and develop into juvenile plants with a rosette of leaves close to the ground. As it matures, the plant develops a woody base and elongated stems with blue-green, oval, and almost succulent leaves arranged in a distinctive overlapping pattern, hence the name "perfoliata." The growth continues to a mature flowering stage, where it produces small white or pale blue flowers arranged in racemes, usually during late spring and summer. After pollination, often by insects, the flowers develop into small capsules containing numerous tiny seeds. Finally, when conditions are favorable, these seeds are dispersed, allowing the cycle to begin anew.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-summer

• The most popular method for propagating Parahebe perfoliata, commonly known as Digger's Speedwell, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. The ideal time for taking these cuttings is in late summer after the bloom period when new growth has started to mature but is not fully hardened. Cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches long and have the lower leaves removed. They can be dipped in rooting hormone powder to enhance root development before being inserted into a well-draining soil mixture, such as one part peat to one part perlite. A greenhouse or a cold frame can provide the necessary controlled environment to maintain high humidity and stable temperatures to encourage rooting. The cuttings typically take a few weeks to root, after which they can be gradually acclimatized to outside conditions and then planted in their final location.