Scientific name: Anagallis arvensis L.Common names: Pimpernel, scarlet pimpernel, blue pimpernelFamily: PrimulaceaeOrigin:Native of Europe. Habit:Annual herbaceous creeper with procumbent habit. Habitat:A common and widespread weed of tended areas, often in gardens and parks. General description:Stems and leavesStems never become wiry, tending to remain soft and green. They are quadrangular (ie. 4- angled). The leaves (5-20 x 3-10 mm in size) are sessile ( attached without a stalk), paired (oppositely arranged) and egg-shaped ( ovate). They are also hairless (glabrous) and have an entire margin. Flowers and fruitOrange, red or blue flowers are borne on long stalks. The flowers have five round petals fused at the base and five yellow stamens. Flowering occurs mainly during spring and summer. The fruit are capsules ( 3-5 mm in size) that open by a transverse line, like a lid. Distinguishing characteristics:Low-growing annual herb with soft green leaves, 4-angled stems, and colourful five petalled flowers. Noxious status:Not noxious. Sources:Kleinschmidt, H.E., Holland, A. and Simpson, P. (1996). Suburban Weeds. 3rd Edition. Department of Primary Industries, Brisbane. Stanley, T.E. and Ross, E.M. (1983-1989). Flora of South-eastern Queensland. Volume 2. Department of Primary Industries, Brisbane. |