Gray field speedwell
Veronica politafam. Lamiaceae
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Pl. 8B0F — Veronica polita
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IOverview
Overview
Gray field speedwell (Veronica polita) is a member of the Lamiaceae family and is native to regions spanning from Europe to Asia, including Albania, Algeria, Austria, and Belgium. Known for its edible and medicinal properties, this plant has been used in various applications due to its light, moist nature and adaptability to different soil types. It typically grows as an annual herb reaching a height of 0.3 meters, with a forb/herb habit. The leaves are the edible parts, often harvested for culinary uses. Gray field speedwell thrives in soils ranging from light (sandy) to heavy (clay), with a pH between 7.5 and 8, making it versatile in garden settings.
Quick answers
What is Gray field speedwell?
Gray field speedwell (Veronica polita) is a member of the Lamiaceae family and is native to regions spanning from Europe to Asia, including Albania, Algeria, Austria, and Belgium.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Digestive Ease
digestiontincture
Historically used for digestive issues.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Gray field speedwell thrives in light to medium soil and prefers a pH of 7.5–8. It is drought-tolerant but requires moist conditions, making it suitable for areas with moderate rainfall. This annual plant grows up to 0.3 meters tall and can be propagated by seed. Ensure the soil is well-draining yet retains moisture; light sandy or clay soils work best. Provide full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. SKIP
Light
7/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
Soil pH
7.5–8
Seasonal calendar
Northern hemisphere · UTC month is September
winterspringsummerautumnwinter
BloomJFMAMJJASOND
For first-time growers
How to grow Gray field speedwell for the first time
8steps
Gray field speedwell is a low-maintenance annual plant that's perfect for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds, small pots or direct garden space, potting soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, or start seeds indoors a month before planting outdoors.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH of 7.5–8. Ensure containers have drainage holes if using pots.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors in small pots, then transplant seedlings outdoors when they are about 2 inches tall and the weather is warm.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a sunny spot after acclimating outdoor plants.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun, regular watering, and occasional light fertilization with compost tea. Pinch back flowers to encourage bushiness.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune spent blooms to promote more flowering and maintain a neat appearance. Remove any yellowing leaves as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in too shady of a spot, not providing enough nutrients, neglecting to prune for bushiness.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The gray field speedwell's leaves are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. Typically, they are prepared in salads for a fresh taste or added to soups and stews for flavoring. The plant thrives in light, medium, and heavy soils with a pH of 7.5–8, making it adaptable to various growing conditions.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe15 regions
native (15)AustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaCyprusDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryItalyRussiaSpainUnited Kingdom
Asia5 regions
native (5)IranIraqJapanKazakhstanSouth Korea
Africa2 regions
native (2)AlgeriaEgypt
Broader regions
native:Kirgizstan, Baltic States, Czechoslovakia, East Aegean Is., Kriti
XSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Lamiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Lamiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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