About Veronica gentianoides Vahl
Veronica gentianoides Vahl grows from spreading above-ground rhizomes, and eventually forms a mat of glossy green leaves arranged into rosettes. Individual leaves are roughly elliptical in shape, and measure 2–8 cm (0.8–3.1 in) long. This species flowers in early summer, producing narrow erect spikes (called racemes) that reach up to 30–40 cm (12–16 in) tall. The flowers on these spikes are blue, and 10–16 mm (0.4–0.6 in) across. This species is highly variable. Flower color can range from almost white to deep blue; plants that grow at high altitudes are noticeably shorter, possibly reaching only 5–10 cm (2–4 in) tall, and have smaller leaves. This species is native to Turkey, the Caucasus, and Iran. In these regions, it grows in damp, relatively open habitats, including forests, grassland, and alpine areas up to 3,600 m (11,800 ft) in elevation. It is cultivated as an ornamental plant in temperate climates, especially popular with alpine gardeners. Several cultivars are available: 'Nana', which may simply be a smaller high altitude form of the species; 'Variegata', which has leaves marked with white patterns; and 'Tissington White', which produces very pale flowers.
