Ohio Native Plant Natural Range
To view the natural range of Veronicastrum virginicum visit the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service website.
Threatened - in New York and Massachusetts
Endangered - in Vermont
Cultivation Information Culver's Root
Height - 5 ft
Flower Color - White
Blooms - June through August
Sun - Full Sun, Part Sun
Soil - Moist to Average
Perennial
USDA Zone - 3 to 8
pH - 5.0 to 6.0
Family – Scrophulariaceae (Snapdragon)
Regarding Partly Sunny Spots - It flowers and does well but tends to bend and twist as it reaches around and towards the sun. A large patch stretching for a tad more sunlight creates the illusion that the ground is uneven or the house behind the garden is leaning. The above picture is growing on a hill in the middle of a sunny garden. As you can see, the plants are straight and tall.
Restoration - There is no doubt that Veronicastrum virginicum is an aesthetically pleasing addition to a garden design. However, don't overlook the fact that native plants growing along the banks of a river or retention pond assist with both filtering and slowing the rate of run off.
.jpg "Culver Root")
Propagation Notes Culver's Root
Seed Stratification
Cold/Moist - I stratify seeds for 60 days. Our house temperature of 65° F produces excellent germination rates. Culver's Root seed does require light in order for germination to occur, with that in mind be careful not to cover seed with potting soil.
Fall Sowing - This is the easiest method. Seedlings grow stronger and sturdier when they are provided with a simple cold frame covering.
Growth Rate - Growth Rate - Very slow - Culver's root was started in February 2015 at the same time as other seedlings. Although, I had hundreds of sprouts, they are considerably smaller than I would have expected. Over the years, I have learned to wait until night and daytime temperature are closer to 70° F before planting.
Collect seed - Late in the fall, when it is brown and easily released from the flower stalk. Lean dried stem into a paper bag without breaking it. Start at the top and work your way down, loosening the seed as you go. I wear gloves, as the seeds are coarse. Only harvest what you need, I suspect that squirrels, chipmunks and birds will appreciate your generosity.
Fall Sowing - This is the easiest method. Seedlings grow stronger and sturdier when they are provided with a simple cold frame covering.
Growth Rate - Growth Rate - Very slow - Culver's root was started in February 2015 at the same time as other seedlings. Although, I had hundreds of sprouts, they are considerably smaller than I would have expected. Over the years, I have learned to wait until night and daytime temperature are closer to 70° F before planting.
Collect seed - Late in the fall, when it is brown and easily released from the flower stalk. Lean dried stem into a paper bag without breaking it. Start at the top and work your way down, loosening the seed as you go. I wear gloves, as the seeds are coarse. Only harvest what you need, I suspect that squirrels, chipmunks and birds will appreciate your generosity.
.jpg "Veronicastrum virginicum - early spring")
