This section is from "The Domestic Encyclopaedia Vol4", by A. F. M. Willich. Amazon: The Domestic Encyclopaedia.
Speedwell, or Veronica, L a genus of plants comprehending 54 species, 17 of which are indigenous : the principal of these are the following:
1. The Beccabunga: See Brook-lime.
2. The Chamaedrys : See Germander, the Wild.
3. The officinalis, Common Speedwell, Male Speedwell, or FLuellin, is perennial, grows on heaths, and in barren grounds; flowers from May till August. - The leaves of this vegetable are slightly bitter and astringent: formerly, an infusion of them was highly prized, as a domestic remedy in coughs and asthmatic complaints. - In a decoction with iron-filings, these leaves yield a black dye for leather. - The plant is eaten by cows, sheep, gouts, and horses: but refused by hogs.
4. The scutellata, or Narrow-leaved Speedwell, thrives on poor swampy soils, and flowers from June to August. - It affords grateful food to geese and ducks.
5. The Anagallis, or Narrow-Leaved Pimpernell-Speedwell, grows in slow streams and shallow ponds, where it flowers in July and August. - This species may be eaten both as salad, and among other culinary vegetables.
 
Continue to: