Scarlet Pimpernel

anagallis arvensis

Also known as: ["Poor Man's Weatherglass","Red Pimpernel"]

Family: Primulaceae Genus: Anagallis Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A small, annual herbaceous plant with bright red flowers and a creeping habit, often found in cultivated fields and disturbed areas.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Ericales
Family: Primulaceae
Genus: Anagallis
Botanical Name: Anagallis arvensis

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in temperate climates
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: low
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 4–6 weeks during growing season.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of sunlight per day; adjust for intense summer sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
very easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid prolonged direct sun.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in cool conditions.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)

Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates mild heat but avoids frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix or perlite and peat moss mix

Hormone

Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; ensure good drainage.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or trim stems just above a leaf node to promote branching.

Pruning Plan

Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems.

Tools

Clean pruning shears or scissors

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape plant; avoid over-pruning.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before new growth begins

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture without saturating the foliage; allow excess water to drain completely.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in freezing temperatures.

Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in cold weather; ensure adequate warmth and humidity.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently if soil dries quickly.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Anagallis arvensis may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Anagallis arvensis can be caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Anagallis arvensis may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic area and potential defoliation if severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Anagallis arvensis due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats that ingest Anagallis arvensis may experience mild gastrointestinal upset and other mild systemic effects. The plant is not considered highly toxic to cats but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from ingesting the plant. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Anagallis arvensis by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and other mild systemic effects. The plant is not typically considered highly toxic to dogs but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent dogs from ingesting the plant. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion occurs.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Anagallis arvensis contains toxic compounds that can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. The plant's effects are generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any part of the plant. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Scarlet Pimpernel toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: Does Scarlet Pimpernel attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its bright flowers.

Q: Is Scarlet Pimpernel difficult to grow?

A: No, it is very easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance.

Quick Reference
Family: Primulaceae
Care: very easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers"]
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