Veronica officinalis aka Speedwell

Taxonomy

Veronica officinalis, also known as heath speedwell, common gypsyweed, common speedwell, or Paul's betony, is a perennial herb that is native to Europe and western Asia but has been introduced to North America and widely naturalised there. It belongs to the family Plantaginaceae (Scrophulariaceae) and is one of many Veronica species in the world. The plant grows 10-30 cm long and has a clambering, branched stem at the base that forms a timber. Leaves are narrow and inverse-ovate with serrated edges and slightly rough texture. Pale blue flowers with a purple tinge, or rarely white, grow in multifloral, flowering clusters from one bosom of two opposite leaves. The plant has astringent taste, and while fresh, it is without odor, but dried, it has a pleasant smell. It flowers from June to August. Common Speedwell is also a rare houseplant that prefers regular watering and well-draining soil. It thrives in long-lasting, direct light and should be less than 1 foot from a window. The plant does not need added fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size. However, if it grows as a weed, one can use Roundup Gel or ready-to-use spray, like Roundup Fast Action Ready-to-Use, SBM Job done General Purpose Weedkiller, or Doff Glyphosate Weedkiller Ready-to-Use, on patches of speedwell and leave the weed for three to four weeks for the weedkiller to take effect before removing dead foliage.

Common names

Speedwell, Gypsyweed, Heath Speedwell

How to care for Speedwell

Difficulty

Speedwell is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Water

Speedwell should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

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.

Lighting

Speedwell requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Speedwell will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The Speedwell should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Speedwell’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Iceland south and east to Spain, W. Asia and the Caucasus.


More info:
Wikipedia