Spiked pyrenean speedwell (Veronica ponae, Ill. Observ. Bot. 1: 1 (1773))

Family: Plantaginaceae

Author: Gouan

Bibliography: Ill. Observ. Bot. 1: 1 (1773)

Year: 1773

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Veronica

Vegetable: False

Observations: Pyrenees to Spain

Description

Spiked Pyrenean Speedwell, scientifically known as Veronica ponae, is an enchanting plant species that finds its origins in the picturesque landscapes stretching from the Pyrenees to Spain. First documented by Gouan in 1773 in “Ill. Observ. Bot. 1: 1,” this species firmly establishes itself within the Plantaginaceae family.

Veronica ponae embodies a unique blend of resilience and delicate beauty characteristic of its rugged natural habitat. The plant is notable for its stunning spiked flowering structure that adds both aesthetic and ecological value to the regions it inhabits. The blossoms, typically blue-violet, attract a variety of pollinators, contributing to the rich biodiversity of the Pyrenean and Spanish ecosystems.

Its growth patterns and adaptability make it a fascinating subject for botanists and horticulturists alike. Veronica ponae thrives in the mountainous terrains, where the combination of altitude and climate creates a unique environment for the species to flourish. Observations of Veronica ponae’s proliferation in these areas provide valuable insights into the ecological dynamics and plant succession typical of the Pyrenean and Spanish slopes.

As members of the Plantaginaceae family, plants like Veronica ponae are integral to maintaining the ecological balance, offering food and shelter to various wildlife species. Furthermore, their presence often indicates the health of the surrounding environment, making them essential markers for environmental studies and conservation efforts.

In summary, the Spiked Pyrenean Speedwell (Veronica ponae) is more than just a visually striking plant. It is a vital component of its native habitats, representing both the beauty and complexity of the natural world in the Pyrenees and parts of Spain. With its historical botanical documentation by Gouan, Veronica ponae continues to captivate researchers and nature enthusiasts, highlighting the ongoing importance of preserving our natural heritage.

Common Names

En: Spiked Pyrenean Speedwell
Ca: Verònica de Pona
Fr: Véronique de Gouan
: Spiked pyrenean speedwell

Synonyms

• Veronica bolosiana (Font Quer)
• Cardia serrata (Dulac)
• Veronica gouanii (Moretti)
• Ponaria ponae ((Gouan) Raf.)
• Veronica sempervirens (Lam.)

Distribution

• France (native)
• Spain (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Jul 10, 2022 by Manuëlle (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 2, 2022 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 7, 2022 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 2, 2022 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 2, 2021 by Santiago (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Jul 10, 2022 by Manuëlle (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 7, 2022 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 2, 2022 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 13, 2019 by bayram kus (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 8, 2021 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Jul 2, 2022 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 2, 2022 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 12, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Paul FABRE (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 8, 2021 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 8, 2021 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jul 24, 2021 by Michèle P (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 2, 2022 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 10, 2022 by Manuëlle (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 19, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Ans GORTER (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 8, 2021 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Jul 15, 2011 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2011 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)

Taken Jul 24, 2005 by Tela Botanica − Alain BIGOU (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 19, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Ans GORTER (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Jul 4, 2018 by Tela Botanica − Jean-Jacques HoudrÉ (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3727491)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:812504-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Veronica ponae Gouan)

Specifications

Growth

Ph maximum: 5.5

Ph minimum: 5.0

Light: 8

Atmospheric humidity: 8

Bloom months: [‘jun’, ‘jul’, ‘aug’, ‘sep’]

Soil nutriments: 4