Common Speedwell

Veronica officinalis

Physical Characteristics

Veronica officinalis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies, bees. 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 can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from Iceland south and east to Spain, W. Asia and the Caucasus.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Lawn; Meadow; Hedgerow;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Tea A bitter tangy tea is made from the fresh flowering herb or the dried leaves[2, 21, 46, 183]. The dried leaves can be added to tea blends[238].

Medicinal Uses

Alterative Antipruritic Antirheumatic Astringent Diuretic Expectorant Stomachic Tonic The leaves and roots are alterative, astringent, mildly diuretic, mildly expectorant, stomachic and tonic[4, 9, 14, 21, 222]. They have been employed in the treatment of pectoral and nephritic complaints, haemorrhages, skin diseases and the treatment of wounds[4], though the plant is considered to be obsolete in modern herbalism[238]. The leaves are harvested in the summer and dried for later use[9].

Known Hazards

None known