Bog Pimpernel
anagallis tenella
Also known as: ["Creeping Pimpernel","Tender Pimpernel"]
Overview
A low-growing, creeping herbaceous plant with delicate pink flowers and slender stems.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Primulaceae |
| Genus: | Anagallis |
| Botanical Name: | Anagallis tenella |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or shaded garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; a cactus or succulent mix amended with perlite works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season; a more significant prune can be done in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates. Adjust exposure based on season to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun; for indoor plants, place near east or north-facing windows.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting the plant sit in water; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a well-draining mix; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); thrives in mild conditions with protection from extreme heat or cold.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain stable temperatures; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth, monthly in spring and fall
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method; take cuttings in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer, when the plant is in its active growth phase.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity.
Medium
A mix of peat moss and perlite or a standard seed-starting mix with good drainage.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting; use a mild rooting hormone powder or gel.
Timeline
Roots typically form within 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors or knife, rooting hormone, small pots, propagation tray, plastic wrap or dome.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; maintain high humidity with a plastic dome; provide gentle indirect light.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems to just above a leaf node; remove any dead or yellowing foliage.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove any dead or leggy stems. Pruning also helps prevent overcrowding and improves air circulation.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or small pruning shears; disinfect tools before use.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or damaged stems; shape as desired; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, just before the plant's active growth period begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot that is one size larger in diameter than the current pot, typically 1–2 inches bigger.
Method
Gently remove the plant from its pot; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. This helps refresh the soil and provides more space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; gently handle roots; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water when top inch is dry; ensure proper drainage; adjust for seasonal changes.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth (spring-summer), allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost or peat moss for organic matter; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in response to temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage, slow growth, and eventual decline, especially below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Keep plants away from drafty windows or cold surfaces; provide a protective layer of mulch; move potted plants indoors during cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting, especially above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Anagallis tenella. The plant is not highly toxic to cats but can cause mild symptoms if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Anagallis tenella can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic to dogs but can cause discomfort if consumed in significant amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAnagallis tenella contains small amounts of toxic compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon ingestion. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Anagallis tenella suitable for container gardening?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers but requires consistent moisture.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full shade, especially in warmer climates.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist, as it thrives in damp conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Primulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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