Overview
Veronica peregrina, purslane speedwell, is a small annual of moist, disturbed ground that grows 2–12 inches (5–30 cm) tall on erect, often branched stems. The narrow, smooth leaves are slightly fleshy, 0.3–1 inch (8–25 mm) long, with smooth or slightly toothed edges, and the lower ones are stalked while the upper ones clasp the stem. Through spring and early summer it bears tiny white four-lobed flowers about 0.1 inch (2–3 mm) wide, set singly in the leaf axils and easy to overlook. The flowers are largely self-pollinating and quickly form flattened, heart-shaped seed capsules that release many small seeds. A single plant can produce hundreds of seeds, so it appears readily in lawns, gardens, fields, and damp waste ground. It completes its life cycle within a few months and dies after setting seed. Native across the Americas, it has spread as a weed to temperate regions worldwide. Its small size and pale flowers make it inconspicuous until it seeds into cultivated beds.
Native Range
Veronica peregrina is native to North and South America and has naturalized across Europe, Asia, and other temperate regions. It grows in moist, disturbed ground, including fields, gardens, lawns, ditches, and the muddy margins of ponds and streams.Suggested Uses
Rarely planted by choice, it appears mostly as a volunteer weed of moist gardens, lawns, and fields. It has limited value as early-season cover on damp bare soil and as minor forage for ground-feeding birds.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height2" - 1'
Width/Spread2" - 6"
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
GreenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Water & Climate
Water Needs