About 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".