Also known as Common Gypsyweed · Common Speedwell · Eurasian Heath Speedwell
Heath Speedwell (Veronica officinalis) is a low-growing, creeping evergreen perennial with small, oval leaves and spikes of pale blue to lilac flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade. More sun generally leads to better flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained. Avoid waterlogging.
Loam, Sandy, Clay
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures. Can tolerate cooler conditions.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Light feeding in spring is usually sufficient. Avoid over-fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly in winter.
Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases, especially in humid conditions. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune after flowering to maintain a tidy shape and encourage a second bloom. Remove spent flower spikes to prevent seed formation.
Cut back stems by about one-third to one-half to promote bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy and straggly. Light trimming can be done anytime.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix. Keep moist and in a warm, bright location.
Division of established clumps in early spring is also an effective method.
Repot container-grown plants every 2-3 years in early spring before new growth begins. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Ensure the plant is watered thoroughly after repotting to help settle the soil.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Heath Speedwell (Veronica officinalis)
Where Heath Speedwell (Veronica officinalis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Veronica |
| Species | Veronica officinalis |
Similar in genus Veronica
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
