Purslane speedwell
Veronica peregrina · Plantaginaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant purslane speedwell: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, medium green
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (April to August)
- Adult size
- 15 to 40 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Good, resistant down to -10 °C
- Origin
- North and Central America
- Soil type
- Well-draining, tolerant
Care
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in winter or during dormancy. This plant tolerates drought better than excess moisture: prefer moderate watering.
Light Exposure
Place the speedwell in full sun or partial shade for optimal flowering. It adapts to partially shaded conditions, but will flower less abundantly. A bright location promotes its growth and vitality.
Soil
Prefer well-draining, light, even poor soil. This plant tolerates sandy and rocky soils. Avoid compact or waterlogged soils, which promote root rot.
Pruning and Cutting
Pinch the tips of young stems to encourage a bushy and compact habit. Remove faded flowers to encourage prolonged flowering. In late autumn or early spring, cut back lightly to rejuvenate the plant.
Fertilizer
Apply a balanced, diluted or slow-release fertilizer once a month during the growing season (April to August). This frugal plant does not require significant feeding: rich soil can actually reduce flowering.
Diseases and Pests
Watch for powdery mildew and downy mildew in case of excessive humidity or poor ventilation. Spider mites may appear in very dry conditions. Ventilate regularly and respect watering intervals to prevent these problems.
Did you know?
The speedwell owes its Latin name 'peregrina' (traveler) to its remarkable ability to disperse over great distances, probably by migratory birds. Although native to America, it has naturalized in Europe and other temperate regions, demonstrating its exceptional adaptability.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Ivy-leaved toadflaxCymbalaria muralis
- Spike speedwellVeronica spicata
- Heart-leaf Globe DaisyGlobularia cordifolia
- Talus slope penstemonPenstemon digitalis
- Coral plantRusselia equisetiformis
- Bunchleaf penstemonPenstemon heterophyllus
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.