Garden Speedwell, Long-Leaf Speedwell

Veronica longifolia

Physical Characteristics

Veronica longifolia is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.3 m (1ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from July to September. 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 and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

N. E. and C. Europe to S.W. Asia, Mongolia, Korea and N. China.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Shoots Edible Uses: Leaves and young shoots - raw or cooked. A famine food, they are only used when all else fails[179].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known