Ashy Speedwell Veronica cinerea
ABOUT
Veronica cinerea, commonly referred to as Grey Speedwell, is a charming perennial plant that displays a plethora of delicate flowers. The blossoms exhibit a sublime shade of blue, sometimes with a hint of purple, which creates a beautiful contrast against the greyish-green foliage. The leaves of Grey Speedwell are small and narrow, lending a fine-textured appearance to the plant. The flowers are arranged in spike-like inflorescences that rise above the foliage, drawing the eye with their clustered formation. The Grey Speedwell's overall shape tends to be bushy, forming a dense mat that spreads over the ground and offers a lush, ground-covering appearance. In full bloom, the plant becomes a sea of blue that can attract various pollinators, adding both color and life to garden settings where it is planted.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Plantaginaceae.
Synonyms
Ashy Speedwell, Grey Speedwell, Woolly Speedwell.
Common names
Veronica cinerea.
ToxicityTo humans
Veronica cinerea, commonly referred to as Grey Speedwell, does not have a well-documented profile of toxicity to humans. There is limited information available regarding its effects on human health if ingested. While many species within the genus Veronica are not known to be toxic, it is always prudent to avoid consuming plants that are not explicitly verified as safe to eat. If a person suspects poisoning from any plant, they should seek medical advice or contact poison control for guidance.
To pets
Veronica cinerea, or Grey Speedwell, is not well-known for being toxic to pets. As with its effects on humans, there is insufficient information regarding its toxicity toward pets such as dogs or cats. However, as a general precaution, it is advisable to prevent pets from ingesting plants that are not confirmed to be safe. If a pet has consumed parts of this plant and displays symptoms of distress or poisoning, it is essential to contact a veterinarian promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
1 foot [30 cm]
Spread
1 foot [30 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Veronica cinerea, commonly known as gray speedwell, lures bees and butterflies to the garden, which pollinate plants and enhance garden biodiversity.
- Low Maintenance: This plant is known for its hardy nature, requiring minimal care once established, making it ideal for gardeners seeking low-maintenance options.
- Drought Tolerance: It has the ability to withstand periods of low water availability, making it suitable for xeriscaping and lessening the need for frequent watering.
- Erosion Control: The plant's root system helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion, particularly beneficial on slopes or in areas with loose soil.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The vibrant blooms add a splash of color to gardens, borders, and containers, enhancing visual interest throughout its blooming season.
- Ground Cover: It can effectively cover ground, suppressing weeds and reducing garden maintenance tasks such as weeding.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Veronica cinerea has been traditionally used to reduce inflammation in various conditions.
- Antioxidant: Compounds within the plant may offer cellular protection against oxidative stress.
- Diuretic effects: Historically, it might have been used to increase urine production and alleviate fluid retention.
- Astringent properties: The plant is believed to help in tightening tissues and reducing bleeding.
- Sore throat relief: Herbal preparations including Veronica cinerea might have been used to soothe sore throats.
- Skin healing: There is a traditional use for hastening the healing of minor wounds and skin irritations.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Veronica cinerea, commonly known as grey speedwell, can be planted in rock gardens for its low-growing, mat-forming habit that offers aesthetic ground cover and contrasts well with larger rocks and boulders.
- The plant is sometimes used in butterfly gardens as it attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, enhancing pollinator biodiversity.
- Grey speedwell can be utilized in cottage gardens to provide a "wild" look with its delicate flowers and to add texture to bedding schemes.
- This plant is also used as an edging plant along walkways or borders due to its short stature and ability to form dense clumps.
- Its resistance to deer browsing makes Veronica cinerea a suitable choice for gardens in areas where deer are a common issue.
- Grey speedwell can be employed in container gardens where its trailing habit spills over the edges of pots for a soft, cascading effect.
- The plant can serve as a living mulch, suppressing weeds and retaining soil moisture when planted densely in garden beds.
- Veronica cinerea is used for crafting floral arrangements; its small, vivid flowers add a splash of color and a wildflower feel to bouquets.
- The grey-green foliage of the grey speedwell can provide an interesting backdrop in a mixed herb garden, complementing the various shades of green.
- Children can be taught about plant growth and reproduction using grey speedwell, as it is an easily cultivated species that can illustrate basic botanical concepts.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Veronica cinerea is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Veronica cinerea is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Fidelity: Veronica, commonly known as Speedwell, is sometimes associated with faithfulness and steadfastness, representing the idea of staying true to a partner or belief.
- Healing: This plant has been used in traditional herbal medicine, symbolizing the ability to heal wounds or overcome challenges.
- Clarity: The clear, bright blue flowers of the Speedwell are often linked to the concept of providing clarity and vision in one's life.
- Good fortune: Speedwell is believed to bring good luck, particularly to travelers, symbolizing safe journeys and positive encounters.
WaterThe speedwell, commonly known as Veronica cinerea, prefers evenly moist soil, so regular watering is essential. It is best to water this plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 gallon of water per square foot. During hot and dry periods, it may be necessary to water twice a week to maintain consistent soil moisture. Ensure that the soil is well-drained, and avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot. During the winter months or in cooler climates, reduce watering to prevent the soil from becoming too wet when the plant is not actively growing.
LightThe speedwell thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It should be placed in a location where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight per day. However, if you are in a particularly hot climate, providing some afternoon shade will help protect the plant from too much intense sunlight.
TemperatureSpeedwell plants are hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures but perform best in conditions between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can typically survive in temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit. To ensure optimal growth, protecting them from extreme heat or frost is advisable.
PruningPrune speedwell in early spring just before new growth begins to remove any dead or damaged foliage from the previous season and to shape the plant. Pruning after the first flush of blooms is also beneficial; it encourages a second bloom and helps maintain a compact growth habit. The best time for a more thorough pruning is immediately after the main flowering period has ended.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Gray Speedwell (Veronica cinerea), the best soil mix is one that offers good drainage, such as a blend of peat, perlite, and sand or a commercial potting mix amended with gritty material. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.8 to 7.0.
RepottingGray Speedwell should typically be repotted once every 2 to 3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. It's best to repot in the spring to allow the plant to acclimate to its new container during the growing season.
Humidity & MistingGray Speedwell prefers moderate humidity levels; however, it can tolerate lower humidity typical of most indoor environments. There are no strict humidity requirements for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Gray Speedwell in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant Gray Speedwell in the sun to partial shade, ensuring well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Veronica cinerea, commonly known as Ashy Speedwell, begins with seed germination, typically in spring when soil temperatures reach a suitable level for activation. Following germination, the plant enters the vegetative growth stage, developing a rosette of leaves at the surface level. As it matures, the plant bolts, sending up flower stalks that bear small, attractive flowers, usually in shades of blue or violet. Pollination occurs via insects, after which the flowers give way to seed capsules containing numerous tiny seeds. These seeds disperse in late summer or fall, completing the life cycle. In colder climates, Ashy Speedwell may die back in winter, regrowing from overwintering root structures or new seedlings the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
Propogation: For Veronica cinerea, commonly known as gray speedwell, the most popular method of propagation is by seed. The best time to sow seeds is typically in the spring after the risk of frost has passed. Gray speedwell seeds are tiny, so they are usually sown on the surface of a well-draining soil mix, as they require light to germinate. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination can be erratic, so patience is needed. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots or spaced appropriately in the garden. It usually takes about two to four weeks for gray speedwell seeds to germinate at a temperature range of 65-70°F (18-21°C).
