The bird’s eye speedwell or common field-speedwell, known by the scientific name Veronica persica, is a small flowering plant that is found in many gardens. This spring flower is very common throughout Britain, however it was originally native to Eurasia; only being introduced to Europe in 1805. It has now spread to North America, Australia and New Zealand too. It can be seen throughout the year, but it is most commonly associated with the spring.
Anatomy:
Veronica persica initially grows close to the ground and the grow upright to around 4-12″ long, giving rise to small flowers. These flowers develop from the axils of the upper leaves, each around 8 mm in length and appear solitary. They have 4 petals that are light blue petals that become lighter in the centre, with dark blue stripes. The flower consists of 3 larger petals and one slightly smaller one. For there reproductive organs, they have 2 stamens and a pistil with a single style. The stems are slender and hairy, and branch off to leaves arranged into an opposite pattern. The leaves are oval-triangular shaped, with a toothed edge and are slightly hairy. The seed capsules are 2-celled, flattened and heart-shaped.
Habitat:
They can be seen throughout Britain, in areas of cultivated grounds, fields and gardens. It can grow on a variety of lands, including chalk, clay, sand and loam; however it prefers moist but well drained land. It spreads across 0.1-0.5 metres in a position of full sun to partial sun.
Edibility:
This plant is edible with a bitter taste, younger leaves however taste slightly sweeter. They are used in culinary arts as an edible decoration, as all parts of the plant can be consumed. It was also made into syrups and elixirs. It is now preferred in the form of herbal tea, it is very healing and has a similar taste to black tea. Moreover, the leaves and shoots can be cooked down into a soft texture which can then be put into smoothies and salads.
This plant is full of antioxidants, and also acts as a diuretic making it a great detoxifier for your body and helps fight infections. Furthermore, it has many antibacterial properties and can also reduce inflammation. It is also rumoured to help a wide variety of ailments, from snakebites, coughs and sore throats, to reducing anxiety, asthma and skin rashes. It is known to relive tension and relax the muscles, which consequently lowers our bodies stress levels.
Symbolism and Etymology:
The scientific name Veronica persica, Veronica meaning ‘true image’, is thought to be named after a young women who wiped Jesus’s face clean while on his way to the Calvary. The women’s cloth was believed to be imprinted with imagery of Christ’s features, and she later became a saint. The pattern on the speedwell’s petals are thought to resemble these stains. The common name of speedwell has also given these flowers a heart-warming symbol, seen as a sign for a safe journey and were often given as farewell gifts.
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