Ivy-Leaf Speedwell

Veronica hederifolia

Physical Characteristics

Veronica hederifolia is a ANNUAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). It is in flower from April to May, and the seeds ripen from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. 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 moist soil.

Distribution

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

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Alterative Antiscorbutic Diuretic The herb is alterative, antiscorbutic and diuretic[240]. It is used in the treatment of scurvy, impurities of the blood etc[240]. It is also used as a remedy for scrofulous affections, especially of the skin, and is bruised and applied externally for healing burns, ulcers, whitlows and the mitigation of painful piles[240].

Known Hazards

None known