Veronica salicifolia aka Koromiko
Taxonomy ID: 18307
Veronica salicifolia, also known as Hebe salicifolia or the koromiko, is a flowering plant in the family Plantaginaceae. It can be found in the South Island of New Zealand and in Chile. This evergreen shrub can grow up to 2 meters in height and has lance-shaped, light-green leaves that can reach up to 12 cm in length. During summer, it produces spikes of densely clustered, tiny white to pale purple flowers that can be up to 20 cm long. When grown as a houseplant, Veronica salicifolia requires regular watering and thrives best in long-lasting, direct light, preferably within 1 foot of a window. It prefers well-draining soil and does not usually require additional fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size.
Common names
Koromiko, Willow Leaf Veronica, Narrow Leaved Hebe, Willowleaf VeronicaMore information about Koromiko
What are the water needs for Koromiko
Koromiko should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Koromiko
Koromiko 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.
What is the sunlight requirement for Koromiko
Koromiko thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Narrow Leaved Hebe.
How to fertilize Koromiko
Once the Koromiko has doubled in size or after a year has passed, it should be moved to a new pot. By replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the vital nutrients, your plant will receive all the sustenance it needs, negating the requirement for fertilizer. It's important to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Is Koromiko toxic to humans/pets?
No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Veronica Genus
Veronica andersonii Strauchveronika
Veronica lyallii Veronica Lyallii
Veronica incana Spiked Speedwell
Veronica spicata Spiked Speedwell
Veronica orientalis Veronica Orientalis
Veronica catenata Pennell's Speedwell
Veronica armstrongii
Veronica hederifolia Ivy Leaved Speedwell
Veronica salicifolia Koromiko