Veronica arvensis

Veronica arvensis 7998

Veronica arvensis, commonly known as wall speedwell or corn speedwell, is a species of flowering plant in the family Plantaginaceae. It is native to Europe and parts of Asia but has been introduced to other regions, including North America.

Description

Veronica arvensis is an annual herb that typically grows to a height of 10-30 cm. The plant has a slender, erect stem that is often branched. The leaves are opposite, ovate to oblong, and have serrated margins. The lower leaves are petiolate, while the upper leaves are sessile.

The flowers of Veronica arvensis are small and blue, with a corolla that is about 2-4 mm in diameter. They are arranged in terminal racemes. The fruit is a capsule that contains numerous small seeds.

Habitat

Veronica arvensis is commonly found in a variety of habitats, including fields, gardens, roadsides, and waste places. It prefers well-drained soils and can often be found in disturbed areas.

Distribution

The plant is native to Europe and parts of Asia. It has been introduced to North America, where it is considered an invasive species in some areas.

Ecology

Veronica arvensis is a pioneer species that often colonizes disturbed soils. It is an important food source for various insects, including bees and butterflies.

Uses

While Veronica arvensis is not widely used in traditional medicine, it has been employed in some cultures for its purported medicinal properties. The plant has been used to treat various ailments, including respiratory issues and skin conditions.

Related Species

Veronica arvensis is closely related to other species in the genus Veronica, such as Veronica persica and Veronica chamaedrys.

See Also

• Veronica (plant)
• Plantaginaceae
• Invasive species