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Annual Biennial

Anagallis arvensis

scarlet pimpernel

A low-growing, creeping annual with stems to 30cm long and small, solitary, orange to scarlet or occasionally blue flowers, 10-15mm in diameter

Other common names
bird's eye
bird's tongue
see moreburnet rose
clockflower
common pimpernel
eyebright
little Joan
poor man's weatherglass
red chickweed
red pimpernel
shepherd's clock
shepherd's weatherglass
sunflower
wink-a-peep
gwlydd mair

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1 year
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Orange Red Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Primulaceae
Native to the UK
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Matforming
Genus

Anagallis can be annuals or evergreen perennials of creeping habit, with small leaves and solitary, 5-petalled, saucer-shaped flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe

How to grow

Cultivation

Grows in any soil but prefers well-drained, light soils in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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