Water Speedwell

Veronica anagallis-aquatica

Basic Information

Family: Scrophulariaceae

Genus: veronica

Plant ID (slug): veronica-anagallis-aquatica

Numeric ID: 20694

USDA Hardiness: Coming soon

Ratings

Physical Characteristics

Veronica anagallis-aquatica is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). It is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers wet soil and can grow in water.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from Norway south and east to N. Africa, temperate Asia to Japan.

Habitats

Pond; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Leaves - raw or cooked[46, 61]. Rich in vitamin C[2]. A subtle flavour[132], the leaves can be added to salads or used as a potherb[183]. When used in salads they go better with a lemon dressing than vinegar[183]. The leaves are often available in winter.

Medicinal Uses

Alterative Antiscorbutic Appetizer Diuretic Poultice Vitamin C The root and the leaves are alterative, appetizer and diuretic[218, 240]. The leaves are used in the treatment of scurvy, impurity of the blood etc[240]. The plant is bruised and applied externally as a poultice on burns, ulcers, whitlows, etc[240].