Speedwell, Gypsy weed
Veronica officinalis
Family: Plantaginaceae
What it is like
A small herb. It grows 20-50 cm high and spreads 30-50 cm wide. It can be spreading or upright. The stems are downy or hairy. The leaves are also hairy. The leaves have teeth and are broadly oval. They are 12-50 mm long. The flower heads are 5 cm long with 6 mm long lilac flowers.
Also put in the family Scrophulariaceae.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It grows in north temperate regions. It will grow in most soils. It does best in an open, sunny position. It is frost resistant but sensitive to drought. It suits hardiness zones 3-9.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Balkans, Canada, Europe (country/location of origin), Falklands, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Mediterranean, North America, Slovenia, St Helena, Switzerland, Tasmania
How it is used for food
The fresh flowering plant or the dried leaves are used for tea. They can also be used as a salad vegetable or potherb.
Edible parts
Leaves - tea
How it is grown
Plants can be grown by cuttings.
Its other names
Local names
Fluellen, Zdravilni jetičnik