Slender Speedwell (Veronica filiformis)

Slender Speedwell

Veronica filiformis

It spreads softly as a green carpet, tiny blooms like pale blue stars. Low-growing perennial groundcover; common name: Slender Speedwell.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Partial sun to full shade; thrives in dappled woodland light, avoids intense midday summer sun
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Watering Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; withstands cool temperate winters, avoid prolonged heat above 28°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, rounded to kidney-shaped, bright green, with slightly serrated margins
  • Flower: Tiny pale blue to lavender four-petaled blooms, clustered at leaf axils
  • Stem: Slender, creeping stems that root at nodes to form continuous mats
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once every 4 weeks. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2 weeks, steep in water, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestations
Pruning
  • Trim back overgrown mats in late summer to maintain compact, neat growth
  • Remove spent flower stems to encourage a tidy appearance and prevent self-seeding
  • Thin dense patches to improve airflow and reduce fungal disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no documented toxicity risks

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Groundcover for rock gardens, lawn alternatives, and terrariums; used for erosion control on slopes