Veronica chamaedrys (Germander speedwell) — Backlit, Freiburg, Germany, 2021

HA-0087 · Backlit, Freiburg, Germany, 05/2021, Julian Auch

Germander speedwellVeronica chamaedrys

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.

Scientific Name

Veronica chamaedrys

Family

Plantaginaceae

Order

Lamiales

Lifespan

Perennial

Blossom Color

Blue

Blossom Symmetry

Radial