Speedwell

Veronica spp.

There are several species of speedwell, some annuals and some perennials. Speedwell is a serious problem in turf, pastures, and alfalfa. Speedwell is an aquatic plant with light blue flowers that are usually partly in and partly out of the water. Speedwell can be found in swamps or along the banks of streams and ponds. Stems grow prostrate along the ground with the flowering tips upright. They may reach as much as 2 feet in length and are capable of rooting at the nodes. Leaves are generally oval to elliptic in outline, widest at the base and pointed at the tip. Leaves are shallow-toothed and approximately 3/4 to 2 1/2 inches long, and 1/2 to 3/4 inches wide. The flowers of speedwell occur in clusters, range from 2 to 6 inches in length and contain many 4-petaled, small, light purple to light blue flowers.