Gentian Speedwell Veronica gentianoides 'Variegata' (v)

Water

The Variegated Gentian Speedwell prefers evenly moist soil, meaning watering should be done when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this results in watering approximately once a week, but this may vary depending on the local climate and the plant's environment. Providing about one gallon of water per square foot every week should be adequate, with adjustments made during hotter, drier periods or if the plant is in a particularly windy area. Overwatering can be detrimental, so ensure good drainage to prevent water from accumulating around the roots.

Light

The Variegated Gentian Speedwell thrives best in full to partial sun conditions. To achieve ideal growth and flowering, plant it in an area where it will receive at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. While it can tolerate some light shade, too little light can lead to leggy growth and fewer blooms. Avoid placing it in spots that are in deep shade or that receive intense, scorching afternoon sun which might stress the plant.

Temperature

Variegated Gentian Speedwell is hardy and can tolerate a broad range of temperatures, but it performs best when the temperature is between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can withstand minimum temperatures down to about -30 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for many temperate regions. Ensuring that the plant is not exposed to prolonged temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit will help to prevent heat stress.

Pruning

Prune Variegated Gentian Speedwell to maintain its shape, remove any dead or damaged stems, and encourage thicker growth. Pruning should be done in early spring or after the plant has finished flowering to stimulate new growth and additional blooms. Cutting back the spent flower stems can also help to prevent self-seeding if that is a concern.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Veronica gentianoides 'Variegata', commonly known as Variegated Gentian Speedwell, thrives in a well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter. The best soil pH for Variegated Gentian Speedwell is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.0. A mixture containing garden soil, compost, and perlite would make a suitable combination for supporting its growth while ensuring proper drainage.

Repotting

Variegated Gentian Speedwell does not need frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its pot. It's best to repot in spring before new growth starts.

Humidity & Misting

Variegated Gentian Speedwell prefers moderate humidity levels. It can tolerate average indoor humidity but benefits from a slight increase, especially during drier winter months.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Plant in well-draining soil, provide bright light, and water moderately.

• Outdoor

  Place in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

Veronica gentianoides 'Variegata', commonly known as Variegated Gentian Speedwell, starts life as a seed that germinates typically in spring under favorable conditions of moist soil and partial shade. The seedling develops a root system and foliage in the form of variegated leaves with characteristic white edges. It enters a vegetative stage where it grows and spreads, forming a low mound of foliage and sending up flower stalks that bloom with pale blue to lilac flowers mainly in late spring to early summer. After pollination, usually by insects, the plant sets seed in small capsules, completing its reproductive cycle. As a perennial, after flowering, it will go dormant in the winter, retreating to the root system before re-emerging the following spring. Over several seasons, the plant may spread through clumping and can also be propagated by division.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: Veronica gentianoides 'Variegata', commonly known as Variegated Gentian Speedwell, is typically propagated through division. The best time to do this is in the spring or early fall when the plant is not actively blooming. To propagate by division, carefully lift the plant from the soil, ensuring that you preserve as much root as possible. Gently tease the plant apart into smaller sections, each with a healthy section of roots attached. Replant these divisions at the same depth they were originally growing, spacing them about 9 inches (approximately 23 centimeters) apart to allow enough room for growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly to help establish them, making sure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged in the following weeks. This method of propagation allows gardeners to quickly and effectively increase their stock of Variegated Gentian Speedwell while maintaining the variegation and vigor of the parent plant.