Corn Speedwell
Veronica arvensis
Family: Scrophulariaceae
What it is like
Veronica arvensis is a ANNUAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from March to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by 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 cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 0.2
Where it is found
Cultivated ground, grassland and on heaths, in more or less open habitats and usually on dry soils.
Europe, including Britain, from Sweden south and east to N. Africa, central and western Asia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
The herb is alterative, antiscorbutic and diuretic. It is used in the treatment of scurvy, impurities of the blood etc. It is also used as a remedy for scrofulous affections, especially of the skin, and is bruised and applied externally for healing burns, ulcers, whitlows and the mitigation of painful piles.
Alterative: Causes a gradual beneficial change in the body, usually through improved nutrition and elimination, without having any marked specific action.
Antiscorbutic: A plant rich in vitamin C that is used to counteract scurvy.
Diuretic: Acts on the kidneys, promoting the flow of urine.
Other
Rating: 0
How it is grown
Easily grown in a moderately fertile moisture retentive or dry well drained soil. Prefers cool summers.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring or autumn in situ.
Best place to grow: Lawn; Meadow;
Habit: Annual
Hardiness: 4-8
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist