Water Speedwell
veronica anagallis-aquatica
Also known as: ["Blue Speedwell","Water Speedwell"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with lance-shaped leaves and small blue flowers, typically found in wet habitats.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus: | Veronica |
| Botanical Name: | Veronica anagallis-aquatica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: wetland edges, stream banks, or containers with consistently moist soil
- Suitable For:
- 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: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged soil.
- Soil Type: Moist, fertile, well-draining soil; can tolerate slightly sandy or loamy conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly when top inch of soil feels dry; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; avoid letting soil dry out completely.
Soil
moist, fertile, loamy soil with good drainage
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; prefers moderate humidity.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; use a thermometer to monitor microclimate; adjust care based on seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; apply fertilizer after watering to avoid root burn; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth; shape plant to encourage bushier growth; maintain air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure 1–2 inch gap around roots.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease apart roots; place in a slightly larger pot with drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during active growth; reduce watering in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; adjust pH with peat moss or lime if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback; prolonged cold can lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or drooping; reduced vigor; may drop flowers or buds.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil 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
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Veronica anagallis-aquatica may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause mild distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Veronica anagallis-aquatica may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicVeronica anagallis-aquatica contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort in humans.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Veronica anagallis-aquatica require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun if kept moist.
Q: Is this plant suitable for water gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in wet or boggy conditions.
Q: Does it attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Plantaginaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
