Speedwell Pictures

Introduction

Speedwell is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. It is also known as Veronica, which is derived from the Latin word “vera icon” meaning “true image”. The plant is native to Europe and Asia, but it has now been naturalized in many parts of the world, including North America. Speedwell is a popular garden plant due to its attractive blue, pink, or white flowers, which bloom in spring and summer.

Description

Speedwell is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 2 feet tall. It has a clump-forming habit and produces erect stems that are covered with lance-shaped leaves. The leaves are dark green and grow up to 3 inches long. The flowers of the plant are small, but they are arranged in dense spikes that can grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers are blue, pink, or white and have four petals that form a tubular shape. The plant blooms in spring and summer, and the flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Types of Speedwell

There are many different types of speedwell, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular types of speedwell include:

Veronica Spicata

Veronica Spicata is a perennial plant that is native to Europe and Asia. It grows up to 2 feet tall and produces spikes of blue, pink, or white flowers that bloom in summer. The plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil and is often used in rock gardens and borders.

Veronicastrum Virginicum

Veronicastrum Virginicum is a tall, upright perennial plant that grows up to 6 feet tall. It produces spikes of white or pink flowers that bloom in summer. The plant prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil and is often used in cottage gardens and naturalized areas.

Veronica Longifolia

Veronica Longifolia is a clump-forming perennial plant that grows up to 3 feet tall. It produces spikes of blue flowers that bloom in summer. The plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil and is often used in borders and rock gardens.

Veronica Chamaedrys

Veronica Chamaedrys is a low-growing perennial plant that grows up to 1 foot tall. It produces spikes of blue or pink flowers that bloom in summer. The plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil and is often used in rock gardens and borders.

Growing Speedwell

Speedwell is a relatively easy plant to grow and maintain. Here are some tips for growing speedwell in your garden:

Planting

Speedwell should be planted in a location that receives full sun or partial shade. The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. Speedwell can be planted in the spring or fall, and it should be spaced about 12 inches apart.

Watering

Speedwell should be watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to avoid letting the soil become too saturated.

Fertilizing

Speedwell does not require a lot of fertilizer, but it can benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring. This will help to promote healthy growth and flowering.

Pruning

Speedwell does not require a lot of pruning, but it can benefit from deadheading. This involves removing the spent flowers as soon as they start to fade. This will help to promote more blooms and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy.

Uses of Speedwell

Speedwell has many different uses, both medicinal and culinary. Here are some of the most common uses of speedwell:

Medicinal Uses

Speedwell has been used for centuries as a medicinal herb. It has been used to treat a wide range of conditions, including respiratory infections, digestive problems, and skin irritations. The plant contains a number of compounds that are believed to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.

Culinary Uses

Speedwell is sometimes used in cooking as a garnish or flavoring. The leaves and flowers of the plant have a slightly bitter taste and can be used to add flavor to salads, soups, and other dishes.

Ornamental Uses

Speedwell is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers. It is often used in borders, rock gardens, and cottage gardens. The plant also attracts pollinators, making it a good choice for wildlife gardens.

Conclusion

Speedwell is a beautiful and versatile plant that has many different uses. Whether you are looking for a plant to add to your garden or a medicinal herb to add to your collection, speedwell is definitely worth considering. With its attractive flowers, easy growing requirements, and many different varieties, speedwell is sure to be a welcome addition to any garden or herb collection.