Long-leaved Speedwell

(Veronica longifolia)

Long-leaved Speedwell (Veronica longifolia L.)

Alien: Native of Europe.

Identification: An erect plant. Flowers light blue, with 4 petals streaked with darker blue. Lower petal smaller than the 2 lateral and 1 apical petal. Flower with 2 spreading stamens. Flowers arranged in one or more dense, elongate, terminal spikes. Leaves elongate, in opposite pairs, with distinct petioles, and a toothed outer margin. Plant 3 to 10 inches in height.

Distribution: Across Canada and the northern United States. Occurs in the east southward to Missouri and Kentucky.

Habitat: Long-leaved Speedwell is a weedy species found in fields, empty lots, and along roadsides.

Flowering period: May to September.

Similar Species: The long, crowded flowering racemes and the elongate, distinctly petiolate leaves make this one of the most easily identified species of Veronica.