
Freiburg, Germany, 05/2021(Backlit)
Veronica chamaedrys
Scientific Name
Veronica chamaedrys
FAMILY
Plantaginaceae
LIFESPAN
perennial
BLOSSOM SYMMETRY
radial
Common Name
Germander speedwell
ORDER
Lamiales
BLOSSOM COLOR
blue
PHYLLOTAXIS
opposite
Veronica chamaedrys, commonly known as germander speedwell, is a low-growing perennial wildflower native to Europe and western Asia. It is recognized by its vivid blue flowers with white centers and fine dark veins, borne on creeping stems with softly hairy, scalloped leaves. The species name chamaedrys means “ground oak,” referring to the oak-like shape of its leaves. In folklore, germander speedwell was associated with fidelity and constancy, and its bright blossoms were once called “bird’s-eye” in rural traditions, reflecting both its color and its familiar presence in meadows and woodland edges.