FIG-WORT TRIBE. 



471 



CHAIO5DRYS (Germander Speedwell), v. OFFICINALIS (Common 

 Speedwell), v. SCUTELL.ATA (Marsh Speedwell), and v. BECCABUNGA 

 (Brooklime). 



5. V. officindlis (Common Speedwell). Rough with 

 short hairs ; stem creeping ; leaves elliptical, serrated ; 

 . flowers in spikes. Heaths and dry pastures, common. 

 A hairy plant with prostrate stems and erect spike-like 

 clusters of blue flowers ; varying from 2 to 6 inches in 

 length, according to soil. The leaves are astringent and 

 bitter, and are sometimes made into tea. FL May 

 August. Perennial. 



6. V. Beccabunga (Brooklime). Smooth ; leaves 

 elliptical, blunt, slightly serrated ; clusters opposite ; 

 stem rooting at the base. Brooks and ditches, common. 

 A succulent plant about a foot high, with rather large, 

 smooth leaves, and bright blue flowers, abounding in 



