Veronica chamaedrys L.

Size

Veronica chamaedrys L. can reach up to 20 cm (7.9 in) in height, but it is often shorter.

Stem Characteristics

Its stems only have hair growth along two opposite sides.

Leaf Morphology

Its leaves grow in opposite pairs, are triangular with crenate edges, and are either sessile or have short petioles.

Flower Structure

The deep blue flowers have a zygomorphic (bilaterally symmetrical) four-lobed corolla, and measure 8–12 mm (0.3–0.5 in) wide.

Seed Capsule Shape

The plant's seed capsules are wider than they are long.

Common Name Etymology

Blossoms of this species wilt very quickly after picking, which gave it the ironic German common name "Männertreu", meaning "men's faithfulness".

Weed Status

When it grows into turf and lawns, Veronica chamaedrys is considered a common, hardy so-called turf weed.

Growth and Reproduction

It creeps along the ground, spreading by growing roots down at its stem nodes, and reproduces both via seed and stem fragments.

Seasonal Growth Pattern

Its leaves may defoliate during summer and winter, but its stems will regrow the following season.

Species Distinction Trait

Unlike at least five other common speedwell species, including corn speedwell (Veronica arvensis), Veronica chamaedrys has opposite leaves on both the upper and lower portions of the plant.

Weed Control Guidance

For special weed control guidance, see the entry for the genus Veronica.

Etymology of Epithet

The specific epithet chamaedrys comes from Ancient Greek, as a combining form meaning "low" or "on the ground".

Native and Introduced Range

This species is native to Europe, and occurs as an introduced species on other continents.

Austrian Herbal Use

In traditional Austrian herbal medicine, Veronica chamaedrys is used internally as a tea to treat disorders of the nervous system, respiratory tract, cardiovascular system, and metabolism.

18th Century British Uses

In 18th century Britain, the plant was reputed to cure gout, and was also popularly used to make tea. This latter use became so widespread that the plant was nearly eradicated from the London area during the 18th century.