American Brooklime, American speedwell
Veronica americana
Family: Scrophulariaceae
What it is like
Veronica americana is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2. It is in flower from July to August. 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. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers wet soil and can grow in water.
Height (m): 0.1
Where it is found
Shallow water, rills and swamps.
N. America - Newfoundland to Alaska, south to California and N. Carolina.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Leaves - raw or cooked. A hot flavour, it can be used as a watercress substitute.
Medicine
Rating: 1
Expectorant.
Expectorant: Clears phlegm from the chest by inducing coughing.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
An easily grown plant, succeeding in a moderately fertile wet soil or in shallow water. Prefers cool summers. Plants do not demand high light levels. Closely related to V. beccabunga.
Propagating it: Seed - sow autumn in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in autumn or spring. Larger divisions can be planted out direct into their permanent positions. We have found that it is best to pot up smaller divisions and grow them on in light shade in a greenhouse or cold frame until they are growing away well. Plant them out in the summer or the following spring.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Pond; Bog Garden;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Wet, water