About Veronica americana (Raf.) Schwein. ex Benth.
Nomenclature and Common Names
Veronica americana (Raf.) Schwein. ex Benth. is commonly known as American brooklime or American speedwell.
Native Range and Habitat
It is a flowering plant native to temperate and arctic regions of Asia and North America, where it grows in streams and bottomlands.
Growth Form and Size
This species is a glabrous herbaceous perennial, with stems growing 10–100 cm (4–40 inches) long.
Flower Characteristics
Its flowers are soft violet, arranged in terminal or axillary racemes or spikes.
Leaf Characteristics
Its leaves are 1.5–8 cm (0.6–3.1 inches) long, 3 to 20 times as long as wide, short-petiolate, glabrous, and range from serrate to almost entire.
Similar Species Confusion
This plant is often confused with Scutellaria (skullcap) and other members of the mint family.
Distinguishing Morphological Feature
A key distinguishing feature is that mint family members have square stems, while all Veronica species have rounded stems.
Human Uses
American speedwell is used as both food and a medicinal plant.
Edible Properties
It is rich in nutrients, and is reported to have a flavor similar to watercress.
Edible Preparation Guideline
If collected from an uncontaminated water source, the entire plant excluding the roots can be eaten raw.
