Veronica peregrina L. var. peregrina

Common Purslane Speedwell; Neckweed

Herb

Annual

Vascular

Common Purslane Speedwell is a native annual species in the Plantain family (Plantaginaceae). Previously it was placed in the Figwort family (Scrophulariaceae). Common Purslane Speedwell grows in moist disturbed sites such as roadside ditches, around mud puddles in parking lots, and in seeps. Two varieties occur in Alabama-- Veronica peregrina Linnaeus var. peregrina is glabrous and occurs statewide. Veronica peregrina Linnaeus var. xalapensis (Kunth) Pennell has glandular hairs on the stems, sepals, and fruit. Variety xalapensis is only known from the southeastern portion of the state, though it likely occurs in other areas. Common Purslane Speedwell leaves are opposite and range in shape from oblong to spathulate. The margins are entire or toothed. The lower leaves have a petiole while the upper ones are sessile. The small white flowers are produced in racemes. Each flower opens for only a short period during mid-day. The flowers are tubular with four petal-like lobes. Each flower is subtended by a leaf-like bract, making the flowers appear to be axillary. The fruit is a heart shaped capsule containing many small seed.--A. Diamond

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Not Native

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