Anagallis arvensis – Scarlet Pimpernel

A low growing annual with square stems and pointed oval leaves arranged in pairs or whorls. The flowers, which are present from May to October, are very distinctive with five vermilion red petals, a purple centre and yellow anthers. The flowers close in cloudy weather, giving the plant one of its common names – Poor Man’s Weatherglass

Habitat Information

In Britain scarlet pimpernel usually behaves as a summer annual but can also exist as a winter annual or occasionally even as a short lived perennial. It is a common plant of many open habitats including arable fields, gardens, rabbit warrens, heaths, dunes and rocky ground.

Growing Information

Grows readily from seed sown at any time of the year. Has the ability to germinate and grow at low temperatures.