Orange Pimpernel

anagallis monelli

Also known as: ["Scarlet Pimpernel","Orange Anagallis"]

Family: Primulaceae Genus: Anagallis Category: Flowers

Overview

A low-growing, spreading herbaceous perennial with vibrant orange flowers, native to the Mediterranean region.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot or container on a sunny patio
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to control size and shape
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth at a time
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; 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
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.

Watering

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

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

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

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

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures but avoid frost.

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

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 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and humid.

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

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended for faster rooting

Timeline

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

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape plant; remove spent flowers

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins

Pot Size

One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot)

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly

Suggestions

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

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; 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 root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging.

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, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth and can cause leaf drop; prolonged exposure may lead to plant death.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; avoid watering excessively in cold.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow or stop.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

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

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Anagallis monelli may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Anagallis monelli can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Anagallis monelli may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Anagallis monelli due to excessive moisture, leading to decay, loss of structural integrity, and plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are particularly sensitive to the pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Anagallis monelli. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and liver damage, which may be fatal if not treated promptly.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression jaundice liver failure
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. If ingestion occurs, contact a veterinarian without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Anagallis monelli can lead to gastrointestinal upset and potential liver toxicity due to the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. The severity depends on the amount consumed and the individual dog's sensitivity.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite liver failure
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants out of reach of dogs. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary attention immediately.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Anagallis monelli contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon ingestion. The toxic effects are cumulative and may not manifest immediately but can lead to serious health issues with repeated exposure.

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

if eaten

Avoid ingestion. Keep away from children and pets. Wear gloves when handling to prevent accidental ingestion.
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 Anagallis monelli toxic to pets?

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

Q: Does Anagallis monelli require full sun?

A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Q: How often should Anagallis monelli be watered?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Quick Reference
Family: Primulaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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