Field Speedwell

veronica agrestis

Also known as: ["Corn Speedwell","Field Speedwell"]

Family: Plantaginaceae Genus: Veronica Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A small, low-growing annual herbaceous plant with small, pale blue flowers and oval leaves.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Plantaginaceae
Genus: Veronica
Botanical Name: Veronica agrestis

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: ground cover in shaded garden beds or containers
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: very low
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerate partial shade.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
very easy

easy

Sunlight

partial shade to full shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct sun exposure.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

moist, fertile, well-drained loam

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; refresh soil annually.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from drafts.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop in dormant periods.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity, indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F).

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a cover; keep out of direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth; shape as needed.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape evenly; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to disease.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Veronica agrestis may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Veronica agrestis can be caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Veronica agrestis may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Veronica agrestis due to excessive moisture or fungal pathogens, leading to decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume Veronica agrestis. The saponins in the plant can cause mild digestive upset, though serious toxicity is rare.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from ingesting the plant; seek veterinary advice if symptoms occur.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Veronica agrestis can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant; consult a veterinarian if ingestion occurs.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Veronica agrestis contains small amounts of saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea stomach discomfort diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion; wash hands after handling the plant.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Veronica agrestis invasive?

A: Yes, it is considered a weed and can be invasive in agricultural settings.

Q: Does Veronica agrestis have any medicinal uses?

A: There is no widely documented medicinal use for this plant.

Q: How does Veronica agrestis reproduce?

A: It reproduces by seed, often germinating in disturbed soil.

Quick Reference
Family: Plantaginaceae
Care: very easy
Light: partial shade to full shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers"]
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