Bent-Foot Speedwell: A Little-Known Annual You Probably Shouldn’t Plant
If you’ve stumbled across the name bent-foot speedwell in your plant research, you’re likely scratching your head wondering what exactly this mysterious little plant is all about. Don’t worry – you’re not alone! Veronica campylopoda, as it’s scientifically known, is one of those plants that seems to exist more in botanical databases than in actual gardens.
What Exactly Is Bent-Foot Speedwell?
Bent-foot speedwell is a non-native annual forb that somehow made its way to North America from its presumed European origins. As a forb, it’s essentially an herbaceous plant – think of it as a wildflower without any woody stems. It completes its entire life cycle in just one growing season, which might explain why it hasn’t exactly taken the gardening world by storm.
Where You’ll (Barely) Find It
Here’s where things get interesting – and by interesting, I mean practically nonexistent. Bent-foot speedwell has only been documented in New York state. That’s it. Just New York. For a plant that’s been around long enough to get an official name, this extremely limited distribution is pretty telling about its garden-worthiness.
Should You Plant Bent-Foot Speedwell?
Here’s the honest truth: probably not. While this little speedwell isn’t known to be invasive or noxious, there are several compelling reasons to look elsewhere for your garden plants:
- Extremely limited availability – good luck finding seeds or plants
- Unknown growing requirements make success unlikely
- No documented benefits to pollinators or wildlife
- As an annual, you’d need to replant every year
- Questionable ornamental value
Better Native Alternatives
Instead of hunting for this botanical unicorn, consider these fantastic native Veronica species that will actually thrive in your garden:
- American Brooklime (Veronica americana) – Perfect for wet areas and stream edges
- Culver’s Root (Veronicastrum virginicum) – Tall, stately, and beloved by pollinators
- Water Speedwell (Veronica anagallis-aquatica) – Great for water gardens
The Bottom Line
While bent-foot speedwell might sound intriguing, it’s one of those plants that’s better left as a footnote in botanical literature. With so many wonderful native alternatives that offer proven beauty, wildlife benefits, and reliable growth, why take a chance on such an unknown quantity?
Your garden (and local ecosystem) will thank you for choosing well-documented native plants that have stood the test of time. Sometimes the most gardening-savvy decision is knowing when to say thanks, but no thanks to a plant – and bent-foot speedwell is definitely one of those times.
