Speedwell Veronica longifolia
ABOUT
Veronica longifolia, commonly known as long-leaf speedwell or garden speedwell, is a hardy perennial that adds a touch of elegance to any garden with its distinctive appearance. This charming plant is appreciated for its slender, lance-shaped leaves that grace the length of the stem, creating a lush, green backdrop for the flowers. These leaves are typically a deep green color, and their arrangement on the stalk is dense and orderly. The most striking feature of the long-leaf speedwell is its inflorescence—a long, narrow spike adorned with numerous small flowers. These flowers are often a beautiful shade of blue, though they can also appear in hues of purple, pink, or even white. The delicate blossoms are tubular and arranged closely together, forming a dense column that rises gracefully from the foliage below. The blooms are favored by gardeners not only for their visual appeal but also for their ability to attract butterflies and bees. Aside from the flowers and leaves, the long-leaf speedwell has a robust root system that allows it to thrive and spread moderately in the right conditions. The plant’s overall form is upright, with a somewhat clumping habit that makes it a favorite for borders, flower beds, and as an accent in mixed perennial gardens. Its enduring beauty throughout its blooming period, which typically occurs in summer, makes it a staple for gardeners seeking to add long-lasting color and texture to their outdoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Long-Leaf Speedwell, Garden Speedwell, Longleaf Speedwell
Common names
Pseudolysimachion longifolium, Veronica longifolia subsp. longifolia
ToxicityTo humans
Veronica longifolia, commonly known as longleaf speedwell, is not widely recognized as a toxic plant to humans. There is no significant evidence or report about its toxicity or poisoning if ingested. As with any plant, individual sensitivities can vary, so it is generally recommended to avoid eating plants not known to be edible to prevent any potential adverse reactions.
To pets
Longleaf speedwell is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to pets either. However, as with humans, individual animals might have varying sensitivities. There is limited information on this plant causing significant toxicity in pets. As a precaution, pet owners should monitor their animals and prevent them from consuming plants not identified as safe for ingestion to avoid any possible negative effects.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
2 feet [60 cm]
Spread
2 feet [60 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Veronica longifolia is known for attracting a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, which is beneficial for gardening and biodiversity.
- Drought Tolerant: This plant is drought-resistant once established, making it suitable for gardens in drier climates or for water-wise landscaping.
- Low Maintenance: Speedwell requires minimal care once it is established, which can save time and resources for gardeners.
- Long Blooming Period: Speedwell typically has a long flowering season, providing a display of color and interest in the garden for an extended period.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its spikes of colorful flowers, Speedwell can add vertical interest and visual appeal to garden beds and borders.
- Ground Cover: Speedwell can be used as an effective ground cover, preventing weeds and helping to stabilize the soil.
- Tolerant of Various Soil Types: It adapts to different soil conditions, making it a versatile choice for different garden settings.
- Resistant to Pests and Diseases: Speedwell is generally resistant to pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Veronica longifolia has been traditionally used to reduce inflammation in various parts of the body.
- Diuretic: The plant can promote the production of urine, aiding in the flushing out of toxins from the body.
- Astringent: It may be used for its astringent properties to tighten tissues and reduce secretions.
- Expectorant: It has been used to help expel mucus from the respiratory tract.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Speedwell can be used in floral arrangements, both fresh and dried, as it retains its color and shape well, adding a delicate and long-lasting touch to bouquets.
- In garden design, Veronica longifolia can be used as an edging plant, creating neat border lines with its upright growth habit and spiky floral displays.
- This plant can be a food source for pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to increased biodiversity in the garden ecosystem.
- Speedwell's dense growth can offer ground cover, suppressing weeds naturally by blocking sunlight and occupying space that might otherwise be taken by unwanted plants.
- When planted in masses, Veronica longifolia can be utilized for erosion control on slopes, as its root system helps stabilize soil.
- The plant can serve as an educational tool in schools or community gardens to teach about native plant species and their role in local habitats.
- As a cut-and-come-again flower, it can be used to create a renewable source of beauty as cutting encourages new blooms, diminishing the need for constant replanting.
- Veronica longifolia can be incorporated into wildlife gardens to create habitats for insects and small animals looking for shelter and food.
- In crafting, the individual flowers of the Speedwell can be pressed and used for making bookmarks, greeting cards, or other decorative paper items.
- Gardeners may use the tall and striking profile of Veronica longifolia for creating visual depth and layers in perennial flower beds.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Veronica longifolia, commonly known as the Speedwell, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Speedwell is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Fidelity: Veronica longifolia, commonly known as the Speedwell, is often associated with the concept of fidelity, representing steadfastness in love and enduring loyalty in relationships.
- Healing: Owing to its historical use in herbal medicine for various ailments, Speedwell symbolizes healing and the restoration of health.
- Clarity: With its clear blue flowers, the plant can symbolize clarity and clear vision, possibly alluding to its namesake Saint Veronica, who offered Jesus a cloth to wipe his face on his way to Calvary.
- Serenity: The calming hue of the Speedwell's blooms is suggestive of a serene and peaceful state of mind, embodying tranquility.
WaterSpeedwell (Veronica longifolia) thrives when the soil is kept evenly moist, especially during its blooming period in the summer. Generally, watering deeply once a week with approximately 1-1.5 gallons of water per plant should suffice, depending on the weather conditions and soil drainage. In the absence of rain and during hot spells, increase the watering frequency to twice a week. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot; let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings. During the winter months, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy.
LightSpeedwell prefers full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for the plant would be in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. However, it can also tolerate some shade, especially in the afternoon, which can protect it from the intense heat of the day.
TemperatureSpeedwell can withstand a range of temperatures but grows best in conditions between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It's hardy and can survive winter temperatures down to about -30 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for many climates.
PruningPruning speedwell is important for encouraging bushier growth and more blooms. Trim back the foliage in early spring to promote new growth. After the first bloom, cut the flower stalks back by one-third to one-half to encourage a second bloom. The best time for major pruning is late winter or early spring.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Speedwell plant thrives best in well-draining soil with added organic matter, preferring a pH range of 5.8 to 6.8, slightly acidic to neutral.
RepottingSpeedwell does not require frequent repotting; it is typically done every 2-3 years or when the plant has outgrown its current container.
Humidity & MistingSpeedwell prefers average to slightly above average humidity levels but is quite adaptable and does not require specific humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Speedwell in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant Speedwell in sunny to part-shade and water when topsoil is dry.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleVeronica longifolia, commonly known as Long-leaf Speedwell, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in early spring, requiring a well-draining soil and some light to activate growth. Seedlings emerge and develop into a rosette of leaves, with the plant focusing on vegetative growth and establishing a strong root system. As the plant matures, it develops tall, upright flowering stems, which bloom in the summer, typically from June to August, showcasing small violet to blue flowers arranged in narrow, elongated spikes. After flowering, the plant sets seed, which can be dispersed by wind, water, or wildlife, allowing for colonization of new areas. Over the winter, Speedwell becomes dormant, with the basal leaves often remaining green, and relies on stored energy in its root system to survive freezing temperatures. With the return of favorable conditions in the next spring, the plant resumes growth, completing its perennial cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer
The most popular method of propagation for Veronica longifolia, commonly known as Speedwell, is by division. The best time for dividing Speedwell plants is in early spring or early fall, when the plant is not in bloom and temperatures are moderate. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clump of Speedwell and gently separate it into smaller segments, ensuring each segment has a portion of the root system. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were originally growing, spacing them approximately 12 to 18 inches (30 to 46 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate air circulation and room for growth. Water the new divisions well to settle the soil around the roots and help reduce transplant shock. With proper care, these new plants will become established and start to grow, producing flowers the following season.
