Veronica gentianoides, the gentian speedwell, is a species of flowering perennial plant in the family Plantaginaceae found in the Middle East, from Turkey to Iran.
Veronica gentianoides grows from spreading above-ground rhizomes, eventually forming a mat of glossy green leaves, grouped into rosettes. Individual leaves are more or less elliptical in shape and 2- long. It flowers in early summer, producing narrow erect spikes (racemes) up to 30- tall, with blue flowers which are 10- across. The species is very variable. Flowers can be from almost white to deep blue; plants growing at high altitudes are considerably shorter, possibly only 5- tall, with smaller leaves.[1]
The species is found in Turkey, the Caucasus and Iran, where it grows in damp, relatively open habitats, including forests, grassland and alpine areas up to 3600m (11,800feet).[1]
It is grown in temperate climates as an ornamental plant, particularly by alpine gardeners.[2] Some cultivars are available, including 'Nana' (which may just be a smaller high altitude form),[1] 'Variegata' which has leaves marked with white,[1] and 'Tissington White', which has very pale flowers.