Royal Candles Veronica spicata 'Rotfuchs'
ABOUT
The Veronica spicata 'Rotfuchs', commonly known as Red Fox Spiked Speedwell, is notable for its dense spikes of flowers that are a rich, eye-catching red to reddish-purple color. These blossoms are small and tubular, clustering along the upright flower stems, creating a feather-like appearance from afar. The flowering spikes emerge from a base of green foliage, and the leaves are lance-shaped with a slightly toothed edge, forming a lush groundcover-like mat when not in bloom. The delicate contrast between the vibrant flowers and the green leaves creates a striking visual in garden landscapes. The Red Fox Spiked Speedwell's overall structure provides texture and color, making it a popular choice for borders and as an accent among other perennial plants.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Plantaginaceae
Synonyms
Red Fox Speedwell, Spike Speedwell, Woolly Speedwell
Common names
Veronica spicata 'Rotfuchs'.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant known as Speedwell is generally considered non-toxic to humans. Ingesting parts of this plant is usually not associated with serious health issues. However, individual sensitivities can vary, so it is always best to avoid ingesting plant material that is not known to be edible.
To pets
Speedwell is not known to be toxic to pets. It is generally considered safe around animals, and ingestion is unlikely to lead to serious health problems. However, as with humans, individual animals may have sensitivities, so it is prudent to monitor pets and prevent them from consuming large quantities of any non-food plant material.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Veronica spicata 'Rotfuchs' is known to attract bees and butterflies, which help in the pollination of nearby plants.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its striking red or pinkish flowers, it adds color and visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Low Maintenance: The plant is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once established.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of dryness, making it suitable for xeriscaping or low-water gardens.
- Growth Habit: Its compact and upright growth habit makes it suitable for borders, rock gardens, and small spaces.
- Soil Adaptability: It can adapt to a range of soil conditions, although it prefers well-draining soil.
- Cold Hardy: Veronica spicata varieties are generally cold hardy, making them suitable for cooler climates.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Veronica spicata 'Rotfuchs' has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Diuretic: It is sometimes used for its diuretic effect, helping in the elimination of excess fluids from the body.
- Antitussive: The plant has been used to soothe coughs and related respiratory conditions.
- Astringent: It possesses astringent qualities which can be beneficial for skin issues and wound healing.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Veronica spicata 'Rotfuchs', commonly known as Spike Speedwell, can be used as a natural fabric dye, producing subtle shades of blue and gray.
- The plant's dense and colorful spikes can be included in flower arrangements to add an interesting vertical element and texture.
- Spike Speedwell can serve as a guide plant in the garden, indicating soil pH by its health and vigor, as it prefers slightly alkaline conditions.
- Its spiked structure can be used as a living support for sprawling plants or those with weaker stems in a companion planting scheme.
- Dried Spike Speedwell flowers can be used in potpourri mixes for a mild and pleasant aroma and to add a pop of color.
- In garden design, it can act as an excellent border for defining pathways, given its upright and clumping habit.
- Used as an indicator for nearby plant watering needs, as Spike Speedwell prefers consistently moist soil without being waterlogged.
- Provides a habitat and food source for beneficial insects, thereby promoting biodiversity within a garden setting.
- When planted in masses, Spike Speedwell can deter soil erosion on slopes due to its spreading root systems.
- The striking blooms can be used for educational purposes to illustrate plant anatomy and pollination to students and gardening enthusiasts.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Spike Speedwell is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Spike Speedwell is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Fidelity: Veronica spicata 'Rotfuchs', commonly known as Spike Speedwell, is often associated with fidelity, representing loyalty and steadfastness in relationships.
- Clarity: The clear, vibrant color of the flowers symbolizes the desire for clarity and truth in one’s life.
- Healing: Historically, the Speedwell plant has been used in herbal medicine, and it symbolizes the wish for healing and good health.
WaterThe Speedwell should be watered deeply once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During hot and dry spells, the watering frequency may need to increase to twice a week to maintain moisture. Each watering session should provide the plant with about 1 gallon of water, which will depend on soil type and weather conditions. It is crucial to avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases, instead water at the base of the plant. During winter, reduce watering as the plant requires less moisture.
LightThe Speedwell prefers full sun to partial shade conditions. It thrives best when it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. An ideal spot would be a location where it gets morning sun and protection from the intense afternoon heat, although it can tolerate full sun if necessary.
TemperatureSpeedwell does well in a temperature range of 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit but can survive in temperatures as low as 20 degrees and as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it should not be exposed to harsh frosts as this can damage the plant.
PruningPruning is essential for Speedwell to maintain its shape and encourage denser growth and more prolific blooming. Deadheading or cutting back the spent flower spikes after the first bloom will often prompt a second bloom period. Pruning should be done immediately after flowering, typically in mid to late summer.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Speedwell (Veronica spicata 'Rotfuchs') is well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0). A blend of loam, compost, and a small amount of sand or perlite is ideal to facilitate drainage and provide the necessary nutrients.
RepottingSpeedwell (Veronica spicata 'Rotfuchs') generally does not need frequent repotting. Repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide space for growing roots, or when the plant outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingSpeedwell (Veronica spicata 'Rotfuchs') is adaptable to a wide range of humidity levels and does not require any special humidity conditions. Average room humidity is typically sufficient for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Full sun to part shade in well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleVeronica spicata 'Rotfuchs', commonly known as Spike Speedwell 'Rotfuchs', begins its life cycle as a seed, typically germinating in spring when the soil warms up. The seedlings develop into small rosettes of foliage, establishing a root system and vegetative growth. During late spring to early summer, the plant enters its flowering stage, producing tall, slender spikes with numerous, small, deep pink to reddish flowers. After pollination, which is mainly by bees and other insects attracted to the flowers, the plant sets seed in late summer. As a perennial, once flowering and seed setting are complete, Spike Speedwell 'Rotfuchs' prepares for dormancy in the autumn, with the above-ground foliage dying back and the roots remaining alive but dormant over the winter. The cycle recommences the following spring, with new growth emerging from the rootstock to start the process over again.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: Veronica spicata 'Rotfuchs', commonly known as Red Fox Speedwell, is typically propagated through division, which is a popular and easy method for many gardeners. The optimal time for dividing Red Fox Speedwell is in the spring or early fall when the plant is not in active bloom and the weather is cool. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant, making sure to keep a generous amount of soil around the roots. Using a sharp spade or knife, divide the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each section has a good amount of roots and several shoots. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were originally growing, water them thoroughly, and maintain consistent moisture until they are established. Division not only helps in propagating new plants but also rejuvenates older clumps that might have become woody or less vigorous, encouraging more abundant flowering.
