American Brooklime or American Speedwell (Veronica americana)

Veronica americana, variously called American Brooklime or American Speedwell, is a plant native to temperate and Arctic Asia and North America where it grows in streams and bottom-lands  It is an herbaceous perennial. American Speedwell is edible and nutritious and is reported to have a flavour similar to watercress. The plant can be confused with Skullcap and other members of the mint family. However, members of the mint family have square sided stems, while Veronica species have rounded stems, and are easily distinguished from skullcap.

·         Flowers, leaves and stems are all edible raw.

·         The leaves which have a taste that ranges from bland dull to peppery are edible; of course they are best harvested when young.

·         Plant is suitable as a potherb

·         Plant is high in vitamin C.

·         Native North Americans used Veronica species as an expectorant tea to alleviate bronchial congestion associated with asthma and allergies.

·         Found in Western Canada and the Northwest Territories.

Al (Alex-Alexander) D. Girvan. All rights reserved.