Scarlet pimpernel (Lysimachia arvensis)

Scarlet pimpernel

Also known as: Red chickweed, Shepherd's clock

Scarlet pimpernel (Lysimachia arvensis) is a low-growing annual originally from Eurasia and North Africa. The flower is famous for the novel of the same name, written by Baroness Orczy. The flowers only open when the sun is shining, and have been known to close on overcast days. That’s why it’s also called shepherd’s weather glass.

Scientific classification

Species

Scarlet pimpernel (Lysimachia arvensis)

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Annual, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Early fall

Bloom Time

Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

20 cm to 25 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

1 cm to 1.5 cm

Flower Size

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Scarlet pimpernel

Distribution of Scarlet pimpernel

Distribution Map

Scarlet pimpernel is native to Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa, where its preferred ecosystem is grasslands and agricultural areas. It is frequently considered an invasive weed because it grows easily in pastures and is toxic to animals. It has spread to most of North and South America, as well as China and many parts of southern Africa.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Pasture, non-wetland

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Scarlet pimpernel has small blooms that can be showy and prolific. Combined with its spreading growth habit, scarlet pimpernel can create an annual or seasonal flowering groundcover. It can be used for this purpose in informal, native, or cottage gardens. However, once established, it may be difficult to get rid of.

Symbolism

Appointment, Assignation, Change

Name Story

Scarlet pimpernel: The origin of the name pimpernel comes from pympernele. The flower is most widely known as the emblem of the fictional hero the Scarlet Pimpernel. Hence, the plant is named after the hero, Scarlet Pimpernel.

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Care Guide for Scarlet pimpernel

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Scarlet pimpernel thrives in moderate moisture environments and requires consistent soil moisture without waterlogging. Weekly watering is essential for optimal health. Best suited for outdoor cultivation, scarlet pimpernel's flowering vitality and frequency depend significantly on proper water management.

Fertilize: Scarlet pimpernel thrives on balanced nutrition fertilizers, with high nitrogen during vegetative stages. Apply diluted, balanced fertilizer monthly in active growth, bi-monthly in fall, and none in winter. Proper dosing is crucial to prevent nutrient burn, adjusting based on growth response and seasonal changes.

Pruning: Scarlet pimpernel is a low-growing annual with bright scarlet flowers. Prune in early to late spring to remove dead stems and spent flowers, promoting new blooms. Minimal pruning supports healthy growth and enhances aesthetics, aligning with the plant's active growth phase for robust flowering.

Propagation: Scarlet pimpernel is propagated by sowing in Spring with a moderate difficulty level. Indicators of successful propagation are germination and vigorous seedling growth. Consistent moisture is crucial for optimal results.

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