Thyme-leaved Speedwell (Veronica serpyllifolia)

Thyme-leaved Speedwell

Veronica serpyllifolia

Tiny blue blooms carpet lawns and paths like scattered sapphires. Low-growing perennial groundcover; common name: thymeleaf speedwell.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers full sun to partial shade; tolerates short periods of drought and light foot traffic
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Watering Water when the top 1 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot in compacted soil
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; thrives in cool temperate conditions and avoids extreme summer heat
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, oval to oblong, opposite, slightly hairy, up to 1 cm long
  • Flower: Tiny pale blue to lavender, 4-petaled, clustered in leaf axils
  • Stem: Slender, creeping, rooting at nodes to form dense, low mats
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Light, diluted feed once monthly. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost calcium levels and improve soil drainage
Pruning
  • Trim back overgrown mats in late summer to maintain a compact, neat form
  • Remove spent flower heads to encourage extended blooming through early summer
  • Rake lightly to thin dense patches and improve airflow to prevent fungal growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No known toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Groundcover for lawns, rock gardens, and between paving stones; pollinator-friendly for native bees