Veronica chamaedrys aka Germander Speedwell
Taxonomy ID: 4958
Veronica chamaedrys, also known as germander speedwell, bird's-eye speedwell, or cat's eyes, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the plantain family Plantaginaceae. This creeping plant roots at the nodes and features spires of bright blue flowers with white centers. The flowers, which are about 1cm across, have four lobes and bloom during spring and early summer. The flowering stems are characterized by two vertical lines of hairs. The leaves of Veronica chamaedrys are entire, pointed, hairy, toothed ovals.
This stoloniferous perennial herb can be found in various habitats such as woods, hedge banks, grassland, rock outcrops, upland screes, road verges, railway banks, and waste ground. It can grow on most soil types except the most impoverished ones and has even been observed on anthills in chalk downland. The plant spreads vegetatively through prostrate stems that root at the nodes, although seed reproduction seems to be relatively rare. Its distribution ranges from sea level up to 750 meters, with an unlocalized record of 820 meters in the Scottish Highlands.
Although Veronica chamaedrys has its uses, such as its medicinal properties, it can also be considered a weed. To get rid of this plant, one can use gel or ready-to-use spray weedkillers like Roundup Gel, Roundup Fast Action Ready-to-Use, SBM Job done General Purpose Weedkiller, or Doff Glyphosate Weedkiller Ready-to-Use. Applying the weedkiller on patches of speedwell and allowing it to take effect for three to four weeks before removing the dead foliage is recommended.
Common names
Germander Speedwell, Cat's Eyes, Bird's Eye SpeedwellMore information about Germander Speedwell
How difficult is it to take care of Germander Speedwell
With its straightforward care requirements, Germander Speedwell is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.
What is the region of origin of Germander Speedwell
Germander Speedwell’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia south and east to Spain, north and western Asia.
What are the water needs for Germander Speedwell
Germander Speedwell should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Germander Speedwell
Germander Speedwell loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Germander Speedwell
To ensure optimal growth, the Germander Speedwell prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
How to fertilize Germander Speedwell
Repotting the Germander Speedwell is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.
Is Germander Speedwell toxic to humans/pets?
The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Veronica Genus
Veronica hectorii Veronica Hectorii

Veronica beccabunga Brooklime

Veronica strictissima Banks Peninsula Hebe
Veronica decora Veronica Decora

Veronica spicata Spiked Speedwell
Veronica opaca Dark Speedwell

Veronica odora
Veronica armstrongii

Veronica gentianoides Gentian Speedwell
