Veronica peregrina aka Necklaceweed

Taxonomy

Veronica peregrina, also known as neckweed, American speedwell, purslane speedwell and hairy purslane speedwell, is an annual herb with taproots that is native to the Americas but has become an introduced species and common weed on other continents. It can be found growing on roadsides, fields, and other disturbed habitats. This plant can be weedy even in its native range. There are two subspecies: ssp. xalapensis, which is coated in glandular hairs, and ssp. peregrina, which is a hairless variety. The plant has erect stems that can grow up to 30 centimeters tall and produce lance-shaped bracts with a loose terminal raceme of white flowers that are typically 2-3 millimeters wide. The leaves vary in shape from linear to lance-shaped to spoon-shaped with smooth or serrated edges, and the lower leaves are borne on petioles. Neckweed is also a rare houseplant that requires regular watering to thrive. It does best in long-lasting, direct light and should be placed less than 1 foot from a window. Well-draining soil is preferred, and the plant should be repotted each time it doubles in size, eliminating the need for added fertilizers.

Common names

Necklaceweed, Neckweed, Wandering Speedwell

How to care for Necklaceweed

Difficulty

Necklaceweed is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Water

Necklaceweed should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Necklaceweed loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Necklaceweed prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The Necklaceweed should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.

Region of origin

Necklaceweed’s native range is Europe to E. Asia. Naturalized in Britain[17].


More info:
Wikipedia