The link between Veronica longafolia and the Virgin Mary is vague but probably began in the Middle Ages when the plant was believed to have medicinal properties and was used to treat wounds, and digestive and respiratory issues. Healing plants are often associated with Mary who is a symbol of a consummate caretaker and nurturer. In addition, speedwell’s upright spikes of blue flowers may have suggested unwavering faith, devotion and steadfastness, also attributes of Mary. By the 18th century when Linnaeus assigned generic names to plants he named the speedwells after St. Veronica who was known for her devotion to Christ. According to legend, St. Veronica gave Christ her veil to wipe his face as he walked to Calvary and when he returned it, the veil bore his image.
Photo Credit: Wikipedia (St. Veronica holding her veil, Hans Memling, c. 1470)
Also known as garden speedwell, this herbaceous perennial is native to Europe and Asia where it grows in grassy areas, meadows, steppes and woodland edges. It is a member of the plantain family, Plantaginaceae, that also includes snapdragon, foxglove and bacopa. The plants form bushy clumps 2-4′ tall and 1-2′ wide and have lance-shaped green leaves that are up to 3″ long and have toothed margins. Lower leaves are typically opposite but leaves just below the flower spike may be whorled. From late spring to early summer, densely packed terminal racemes of 1/4″ wide, blue, star-shaped flowers appear. The racemes are up to 12″ long and the flowers open from bottom to top. Cultivars are available with white and pink flowers.
The genus name, Veronica, honors St. Veronica. The specific epithet, longafolia, are from the Latin words longus meaning long, and folius, meaning leaf and refers to the relative size of the leaves.
Longleaf speedwell likes full sun in average, consistently moist, well-drained soil in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-8. It tolerates some shade but may become floppy in shade or overly fertilized soil. Plants are generally healthy but powdery mildew can be a problem. Deadhead to prolong bloom and divide every 3 years. Propagation is by seed, division, and cuttings.