About Veronica peregrina L.
Veronica peregrina L. is a species of flowering plant in the plantain family. It has several common names: neckweed, American speedwell, purslane speedwell, and hairy purslane speedwell. This plant is native to the Americas, and it has been introduced to other continents where it is a common weed. It can also grow as a weed within its native range, most often found on roadsides, in fields, and in other types of disturbed habitat. It is an annual herb that grows from a taproot. The species is divided into two subspecies, which are primarily distinguished by their hairiness: subspecies xalapensis is covered in glandular hairs, while subspecies peregrina is a hairless variety. This plant produces erect stems that can reach up to around 30 centimeters in height. Its leaves vary in shape, ranging from linear to lance-shaped to spoon-shaped, and can have either smooth or serrated edges. Lower leaves grow on short petioles. The inflorescence is a loose terminal raceme that holds flowers and lance-shaped bracts. The flowers are typically white and measure 2 to 3 millimeters across.
