Water Speedwell, Blue Speedwell, Brook Pimpernel,Veronica anagallis-aquatica,Plantain Family (Plantaginaceae)

Found in shallow water, moist areas, stream sides
Seen blooming in June by the Rio Chama
Although common along local waterways Water Speedwell is hard to spot because of its small flowers. It usually grows sprawling to two feet with erect flower stems growing from the base of the leaves and the end of the branches. Leaves have small teeth, clasp the stem and are up to three inches long. Tiny flowers are ¼ inch across and grow in clusters of 30 or more flowers. The flowers have four lavender blue or violet petals with purple lines and two long stamens. Leaves are edible raw or cooked and are rich in vitamin C. They have a subtle flavor and can be added to salads or used as a potherb. When used in salads they go better with a lemon dressing than vinegar. The root and the leaves are used medicinally to improve appetite, as a blood tonic, to improve urine flow, in the treatment of scurvy, and to treat burns and skin ulcers. Source.

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