Veronica nivea Lindl.

Common Name and Family

Veronica nivea, commonly known as milfoil speedwell or snow speedwell, is a flowering plant species in the family Plantaginaceae.

Taxonomic Classification

It is endemic to southeastern Australia, and it is sometimes classified in the genera Parahebe or Derwentia instead of Veronica.

Growth Form and Height

This species is a subshrub that grows 15 to 50 centimeters in height.

Leaf Characteristics

Its pinnately divided leaves measure 1.5 to 3 centimeters long.

Flower Traits and Flowering Period

The flowers are white, pale lilac, or bright blue, and they appear in racemes holding 20 to 40 flowers during the summer.

General Habitat and Distribution Range

Veronica nivea grows in alpine and subalpine grassland, heathland, and woodland across New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania.

New South Wales Distribution

In New South Wales, it has been recorded in Kosciuszko National Park.

Victoria Distribution

In Victoria, it is found on the Baw Baw plateau, as well as in areas that include Mount Buffalo, Lake Mountain, and Falls Creek.

Substrate Preference

It is often found growing on disturbed sites.

Etymology of Specific Epithet

The Latin specific epithet nivea translates to "white as snow".