Scarlet pimpernel (Lysimachia arvensis) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

Moisture-loving, keep the soil moist but do not let water accumulate.

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial sun

Hardiness Zones

7 to 10

Planting Time

Spring

Harvest Time

Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

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Scarlet pimpernel

Sunlight

Full sun

Hardiness Zones

7 to 10

Planting Time

Spring

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Questions About Scarlet pimpernel

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Scarlet pimpernel?

To water Scarlet pimpernel, you can use a garden hose with a spray nozzle, a watering can, or just about any other common watering tool. Generally, Scarlet pimpernel is not too picky about how they receive their water, as they can live off of rainwater, tap water, or filtered water. Often, you should try not to water this plant from overhead, as doing so can damage the leaves and flowers and may lead to disease as well. At times, the best method for watering this plant is to set up a drip irrigation system. These systems work well for Scarlet pimpernel as they apply water evenly and directly to the soil. For one Scarlet pimpernel that grows in a container, you can use a similar watering approach while changing the tools you use. To water a container-grown Scarlet pimpernel, use a cup, watering can, or your tap to apply water directly to the soil.

What should I do if I water my Scarlet pimpernel too much or too little?

The remedy for underwatering Scarlet pimpernel is somewhat obvious. When you notice that your plant lacks moisture, simply begin watering it on a more regular basis. The issue of overwatering can be a much more dire situation, especially if you fail to notice it early. When your Scarlet pimpernel is overwatered, it may contract diseases that lead to its decline and death. The best way to prevent this outcome is to choose a proper growing location, one that receives plenty of sunlight to help dry the soil and has good enough drainage to allow excess water to drain rather than pooling and causing waterlogged soils. If you overwater your Scarlet pimpernel that lives in a pot, you may need to consider changing it to a new pot. Your previous container may not have contained soil with good drainage or may not have had sufficient drainage holes. As you repot your overwatered Scarlet pimpernel, make sure to add loose soils and to use a pot that drains efficiently.

How often should I water my Scarlet pimpernel?

Scarlet pimpernel needs water regularly throughout the growing season. Beginning in spring, you should plan to water this plant about once per week. As the season presses on and grows warmer, you may need to increase your watering rate to about two to three times per week. Exceeding at this rate can be detrimental to your Scarlet pimpernel. With that said, you should also ensure that the soil in which your Scarlet pimpernel grows remains relatively moist but not wet, regardless of how often you must water to make that the case. Watering Scarlet pimpernel that lives in a pot is a bit different. Generally, you'll need to increase your watering frequency, as the soil in a pot can heat up and dry out a bit faster than ground soil. As such, you should plan to water a container-grown Scarlet pimpernel a few times per week in most cases, versus just once per week for an in-ground plant.

How much water does my Scarlet pimpernel need?

There are a few different ways you can go about determining how much water to give to your Scarlet pimpernel. Some gardeners choose to pick their water volume based on feeling the soil for moisture. That method suggests that you should water until you feel that the first six inches of soil have become moist. Alternatively, you can use a set measurement to determine how much to water your Scarlet pimpernel. Typically, you should give your Scarlet pimpernel about two gallons of water per week, depending on how hot it is and how quickly the soil becomes dry. However, following strict guidelines like that can lead to overwatering if your plant requires less than two gallons per week for whatever reason. When growing Scarlet pimpernel in a container, you will need to use a different method to determine how much water to supply. Typically, you should give enough water to moisten all of the layers of soil that have become dry. To test if that is the case, you can simply stick your finger in the soil to feel for moisture. You can also water the soil until you notice a slight trickle of excess water exiting the drainage holes of your pot.

How can I tell if i'm watering my Scarlet pimpernel enough?

It can be somewhat difficult to avoid overwatering your Scarlet pimpernel. On the one hand, these plants have relatively deep roots that require you to moisten the soil weekly. On the other hand, Scarlet pimpernel are plants that are incredibly susceptible to root rot. Along with root rot, your Scarlet pimpernel may also experience browning as a result of overwatering. Underwatering is far less likely for your Scarlet pimpernel as these plants can survive for a while in the absence of supplemental watering. However, if you go too long without giving this plant water, it will likely begin to wilt. You may also notice dry leaves.

How should I water my Scarlet pimpernel through the seasons?

You can expect your Scarlet pimpernel’s water needs to increase as the season moves on. During spring, you should water about once per week. Then, as the summer heat arrives, you will likely need to give a bit more water to your Scarlet pimpernel, at times increasing to about three times per week. This is especially true of Scarlet pimpernel that grow in containers, as the soil in a container is far more likely to dry out faster than ground soil when the weather is warm. In autumn, while your Scarlet pimpernel is still in bloom, it may need a bit less water as the temperature has likely declined, and the sun is no longer as strong as it was in summer.

How should I water my Scarlet pimpernel at different growth stages?

Scarlet pimpernel will move through several different growth stages throughout the year, some of which may require more water than others. For example, you will probably start your Scarlet pimpernel as a seed. While the seed germinates, you should plant to give more water than your Scarlet pimpernel will need later in life, watering often enough to maintain consistent soil moisture. After a few weeks, your Scarlet pimpernel will grow above the soil and may need slightly less water than at the seedling phase. Then, once this plant is mature, you can begin to use the regular watering frequency of about once per week. As flower development takes place, you may need to give slightly more water to aid the process.

What's the difference between watering Scarlet pimpernel indoors and outdoors?

There are several reasons why most Scarlet pimpernel grow outdoors rather than indoors. The first is that these plants typically grow to tall. The second reason is that Scarlet pimpernel needs more daily sunlight than most indoor growing locations can provide. If you are able to provide a suitable indoor growing location, you may find that you need to give your Scarlet pimpernel water a bit more often than you would in an outdoor growing location. Part of the reason for this is that indoor growing locations tend to be a lot drier than outdoor ones due to HVAC units. The other reason for this is that soil in containers can dry out relatively quickly as well compared to soil in the ground.

Is pruning necessary for my Scarlet pimpernel?

Scarlet pimpernel is a kind of annual plant so it doesn't need much pruning. You only need to cut off and clean the diseased, yellow or dropped leaves and stems during its growing period. This will help your Scarlet pimpernel to stay away from pathogens infection.

How do I prune my Scarlet pimpernel?

During the growth of the plant, yellowing, drying and spotted leaves are produced, and these spotted and discolored leaves need to be trimmed off. If the whole piece of leave is discolored or infected, you will need to cut it off completely. In other situations, you will only need to cut off the discolored or infected part on certain leaves. Scarlet pimpernel above the ground will die and dry up in the winter, and the dead plants need to be cleaned up.

Are there any cautions I should be careful with when pruning my Scarlet pimpernel?

Scarlet pimpernel leaves are delicate, so take care not to score or bruise them. Unless the leaves are withered or heavily discolored, do not prune the leaves from the lowermost branches unless they’re damaged. They typically grow the largest, so they supply the plant with critical energy to keep it growing right. Please prevent the wounds from water after pruning until they are fully recovered. Remember always sterilize the tools before pruning. When the pruning is finished, please throw all the waste leaves and stems into the trashbins to avoid diseases and bugs.

Are there any tips for pruning my Scarlet pimpernel?

Sterilize all the tools before pruning; unclean tools will pass pathogens to the plant through wounds;
Prune on sunny days because the new cuts will be infected by pathogens if they're distained by rain or water.
Throw all the waste leaves and stems into trashbins, they will easily rot and attract diseases and bugs

When should/shouldn't I prune my Scarlet pimpernel?

Expect to prune your Scarlet pimpernel every week if it’s growing well or every two weeks if it grows slowly. It is always good to prune it on sunny days because if you prune it on rainy days, the rainwater will distain the cuts and cause the whole plant to be infected.

What should I look for when pruning my Scarlet pimpernel in different seasons?

Because Scarlet pimpernel is an annual plant, the pruning should take place basically during the seasons that the plant grows rapidly. During the growth of the plant, yellowing, drying and spotted leaves are produced, and these spotted and discolored leaves need to be trimmed off.

How much sunlight should Scarlet pimpernel get per day to grow healthily?

You must expose the plants to at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. They prefer more exposure to the morning light, especially in the summer. The Scarlet pimpernel needs full sun and more sunlight that it can get. The more light these species get, the more they can manufacture food, produce beautiful blooms, and survive.

What type of sunlight does Scarlet pimpernel need?

The Scarlet pimpernel grows best under full sunlight. It's best not to crowd them together so they can get exposure to the sun evenly. The leaves shouldn't be starved with sunlight. If planted in pots, try to expose the herbaceous flowers in windows with direct sun and ensure they receive full sunlight regardless of the months.

They don't tend to do well in partial or filtered light as this will not produce strong stems and healthy flowers. It's best if the Scarlet pimpernel is always exposed to the sun.

Can sunlight hurt plants? How to protect Scarlet pimpernel from sun and heat damage?

When the temperature rises above 90℉(32℃), the Scarlet pimpernel can get damaged by extreme temperatures, especially if they are exposed to many hours of sun. It's always ideal for providing some shade from the light in the afternoon in the summer. It's always important to keep in mind that the sunlight in the summer is stronger than the one in the winter. Sunlight exposure is also 50% longer in the summer than in the winter.

If the Scarlet pimpernel is too stressed with sunlight, you might want to keep them fully hydrated. Water them when the top of the soil is about 2 inches dry, and move the plants indoors if it's too hot outside. This is the case if they are planted in containers.

It can be normal for the plant leaves to wilt during the day. Generally, they can recover at night. However, when you notice that the Scarlet pimpernel is still drooping, this means that the plant is losing water fast, and you need to water them.

Should I protect Scarlet pimpernel from sun exposure?

The Scarlet pimpernel does not need any protection from the sun. In fact, they love the sun, and some species are heliotropic. Plant them in south-facing gardens whenever possible so they can be exposed from morning to afternoon. While the sun can benefit them, some may experience a sunburn. You might offer protection from the afternoon and midday sun through a shade of a tree or a wall.

Growing the Scarlet pimpernel in shady areas is impossible because the larger flowers would require a lot of energy to grow and produce. Always provide the lighting conditions and set them in an area with full sun for best results.

What will happen if Scarlet pimpernel gets inadequate sunlight?

When the Scarlet pimpernel does not get adequate sunlight, or they are not placed in full sun locations, it's worth noting that the photosynthetic process will slow down. A lack of sunlight will cause the stems to become more leggy since they become thin and long since they tend to seek too much sunlight. They will not bloom and produce seeds in the shade.

Inadequate sunlight will also mean that the older leaves can die, the color of the new ones is lighter than the old foliage, and the new growth is smaller than the last ones.

The Scarlet pimpernel indeed loves the sun so much. However, they can wilt when exposed to excessive heat and ultraviolet light during the extreme summer months, so be careful. You might want to cover them with a net that has a green shade, especially in the summer, to prevent the leaves and the flowers from scorching. When they are indoors, reduce the heat with the help of a fan.

Does Scarlet pimpernel need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

When the Scarlet pimpernel is growing, they need more light than their mature counterparts. The younger ones should receive adequate light, but they might not be prepared for sudden full sunlight, especially if they are grown in a nursery. They can be more sensitive to the summer sun, so the lighting should be gradual and slow.

How much light does Scarlet pimpernel need for photosynthesis?

During summer or late spring, the Scarlet pimpernel needs 6 to 8 hours of direct light every single day. This is whether they are planted outdoors. If the Scarlet pimpernel is planted in pots or you're growing them in the winter, they need direct fluorescent lights that help them grow better. Make sure to place them in an indoor area where they are facing south or east so they can have enough sunlight for photosynthesis.

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Scarlet pimpernel?

When transplanting the plants, they should not be exposed to sudden sunlight. Give the Scarlet pimpernel to grow and mature before transplanting outside. Some species of herbaceous plants can grow taller and might cast a shade on other young plants. Allow between 80 to 100 days of growing season before planting another batch to ensure that every plant receives more than enough sunlight for at least 6 hours a day.

Make sure that the Scarlet pimpernel receives the best light possible, especially if it's planted in a nursery. These are sun-loving plants, but too much sunlight with a very hot temperature is also detrimental to their growth. Indoor lights should be replaced with natural sunlight as much as possible since these species crave this every day.

What is the optimal temperature for Scarlet pimpernel?

The best temperature for Scarlet pimpernel depends on the time of year. There are two primary seasons to discuss for temperature: the growing season, and the dormancy season. During the growing season, once Scarlet pimpernel has begun to sprout, the ideal temperature range should be anywhere from 65~80℉(18~27℃). Any colder than 15℉(-10℃), and the plant will suffer; its leaves may brown and wilt, but if this is a short cold snap, then Scarlet pimpernel may be able to survive with some help.

During the warmer parts of the year, Scarlet pimpernel will need to be similarly protected from temperatures that are too high. 95-105℉ (35-40℃) is the top of this plant’s temperature range, and anything above that will compromise the integrity of the foliage and blooms of Scarlet pimpernel. Hotter temperatures can cause wilting, drooping, and even sunburn on the leaves, which can be difficult for Scarlet pimpernel to recover from. There are quite a few ways to combat this issue that are quick and easy!

Temperature requirements for first year or seedling Scarlet pimpernel

If this is the first year of your Scarlet pimpernel outside as a new plant, then it may need a little extra tending during the coldest months of the year. Not only can frost more severely damage a first-year Scarlet pimpernel, but it can also prevent it from growing back as a healthy plant come spring. This plant needs to be kept at 40℉(5℃) or above when they’re not yet established, which can be done either by bringing your Scarlet pimpernel inside for a month or two, or putting up mulch or fabric barriers that protect from frost damage.

It’s also a good idea to plant Scarlet pimpernel in a shadier spot during the first year or two, as smaller and weaker plants have a more difficult time maintaining their own temperatures in the heat. First-year Scarlet pimpernel should receive no more than five hours of direct sunlight per day, particularly if the ambient daytime temperature gets above 80℉(27℃). Shadecloth and frequent watering or misting are the keys to summer heat control.

How can I protect Scarlet pimpernel from extreme temperatures?

If cold temperatures (below 15℉(-10℃)) do occur during the growing season, there are a few measures you can take to help protect Scarlet pimpernel from frost or cold damage. If you’re growing Scarlet pimpernel in a container, then the container can simply be brought inside in bright, indirect light until the temperatures rise up over the lower threshold again. Another option that’s better suited for ground-planted Scarlet pimpernel is to use mulch or horticultural fabric to create an insulated barrier around the plant, which will protect the plant from frost and cold wind.

For temperatures that are hotter than 80℉(27℃) in the shade during the day, be careful to only expose Scarlet pimpernel to six hours or less of sunlight per day, preferably in the morning hours. Putting up shade cloth, or a fine plastic mesh, can help reduce the amount of direct sunlight that hits the plant during the hottest parts of the day. You can also install a misting system that allows for a slow release of cooling mist around the base of the plant during the day to lower ground temperatures.

Dormant season temperature recommendations for Scarlet pimpernel

During the cold winter months, Scarlet pimpernel needs a certain measure of cold in order to stay in dormancy until it’s time to sprout. Sprouting too early, that is before the danger of the last frost has passed, can be fatal to Scarlet pimpernel, especially if it’s already had a head start when the frost hits. Winter temperatures should ideally stay below 32℉(0℃), but if they get up to 40℉(5℃), everything will be just fine.

An unexpected warm spell during the cold months, which can happen in more temperate climates like woodland rainforests, can trigger a premature sprout from Scarlet pimpernel. In this case, if there’s still imminent danger of frost, you may want to try covering it with clear plastic on stakes so that the cold has less of a chance of damaging the new sprout. This setup can be removed when the danger of frost has passed. Occasionally, Scarlet pimpernel will be able to resprout at the correct time without any help, but this method increases the chances of a successful second sprouting.

Why do I need to fertilize my Scarlet pimpernel?

All plants need nutrients to grow, but some types are able to take what they need and don’t need any supplementation with fertilizers. Scarlet pimpernel, like other plants, use nutrients to support growth and all internal processes.

Each of the main nutrients that plants use (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) contribute to one or more of a plant’s essential functions, and in the case of foliage it is nitrogen that provides the most support. It can be difficult for a Scarlet pimpernel to get enough nitrogen from the soil, which is why many gardeners prefer to supplement by feeding Scarlet pimpernel with a source of nitrogen.

When is the best time to fertilize my Scarlet pimpernel?

Scarlet pimpernel generally grows well, but a fertilizer can be applied about once a month to give the plant a boost when it is actively growing. You should fertilize Scarlet pimpernel about once a month only during the spring and summer months, but not during fall and winter when it becomes less active and does not use as many nutrients.

You’ll know when to start fertilizing Scarlet pimpernel if you see signs of new growth. The fertilization schedule remains the same whether the plant is grown outside or indoors in a container. However, if your Scarlet pimpernel is in a container, you probably will not need to fertilize for the first one to two months. Potting soil made for container plants already contains plenty of nutrients, so you should only start to fertilize after your plant has been in the same soil for a while.

When should I avoid fertilizing my Scarlet pimpernel?

Never fertilize your Scarlet pimpernel if it is not healthy, for example if it has developed a disease or has insect pests on it. Also do not fertilize a dehydrated plant, since the fertilizer will make this problem even worse. Only fertilize healthy plants.

Do not splash fertilizer onto the leaves or stem of this plant when watering, since it can cause burned spots. Be careful not to allow the fertilizer to make direct contact with the plant, unless you are usually a special fertilizer designed to be applied to the foliage.

What type of fertilizer does my Scarlet pimpernel need?

Fertilizers contain high levels of nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus, along with other essential nutrients such as iron, manganese and zinc. These are all necessary elements that promote growth in Scarlet pimpernel.

A balanced fertilizer works well for Scarlet pimpernel, for example an all-purpose fertilizer with a 10-10-10 NPK number. For natural fertilizers, blood meal or worm castings work well. You may also choose a fertilizer that is higher in nitrogen than other nutrients, such as fish fertilizer. Nitrogen provides support to leaves, which are the main feature that people want from Scarlet pimpernel. There is no point in providing a lot of supplements for flowers or seeds if that is not your purpose in growing the plant.

How do I fertilize my Scarlet pimpernel?

Apply fertilizer based on the instructions on the particular type you have purchased. It is generally a good idea to start with half-strength fertilizer to avoid accidentally over-fertilizing your Scarlet pimpernel. Since this plant requires frequent fertilization, it is common to accidentally fertilize too much. Remember that it’s always easier to add more fertilizer than it is to try to save an over-fertilized plant.

Don’t apply fertilizer to dry soil - it should already be at least somewhat moist before fertilizing. This helps the fertilizer absorb more easily and helps avoid fertilizer burn. You should also water after applying dry fertilizers to your soil.

Some fertilizers are meant to be mixed into the soil when planting, while others are applied on top of the soil and then watered in. For most types of Scarlet pimpernel, a water soluble fertilizer is an easy choice. Simply mix the fertilizer solution into your watering can at the recommended dosage for Scarlet pimpernel and then water the plant as usual. Slow-release granules or fertilizer spikes can also work well if you prefer not to remember to fertilize monthly.

What happens if I fertilize my Scarlet pimpernel too much?

Over-fertilization leads to a build-up of salts in the soil which leads to a lack of vitality overall and pale coloration in the leaves. Leaves may also wilt or develop brown tips as the excess salt from the fertilizer tries to make its way out of the leaves.

Too much fertilizer makes it impossible for the plant to take up water and nutrients, which will eventually kill it if you don’t take steps to save your Scarlet pimpernel. If the Scarlet pimpernel is in a container, you could either remove it from the pot and repot it in fresh potting mix, or flush out the soil by running a lot of water through and letting it drain out thoroughly.

If your Scarlet pimpernel is outdoors, the same theory applies, although it can be more difficult to flush outdoor soil. Water thoroughly and hold off on fertilizing again for a while. You may want to perform a soil test before you add any more fertilizer to make sure you don’t provide too much of any one nutrient.

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Feng shui direction

Southeast

The scarlet pimpernel is an intriguing addition to Southeast facing areas in Feng Shui practice, thanks to its vibrant scarlet color. This direction, correlated with the Wood element, is believed to be invigorated by the fiery red hue, symbolizing ignition of growth and personal developments. However, as different systems can interpret the same principles differently, it's essential to tailor Feng Shui applications to individual preferences and context.

Water

Every week

Lighting

Full sun

Scarlet pimpernel generally necessitates an open sky above it for substantial light penetration. Sufficient luminosity enables optimal growth, important especially during budding and flowering phases. Originating from sunny settings, it can tolerate occasional shade. Overexposure could lead to wilting, while too little sun can impede its growth and flowering.

Temperature

0 41 ℃

Scarlet pimpernel is native to temperate environments, with a thermal preference of 68 to 95 °F (20 to 35℃). Depending on seasonal changes, adjustments may be needed to maintain this ideal range, especially during colder periods.

Transplant

6-8 inches

Transplanting scarlet pimpernel thrives best in the S1-S3 season, ideally spring to early summer, as this time offers ample sunlight and moderate temperatures. The location should be well-drained and sunny. While transplanting, careful handling of the root system ensures a successful transition. Remember, scarlet pimpernel loves a friendly chat during the process!

Alpine rose (Rosa pendulina) is a deciduous perennial shrub that will grow to 1.8 m tall. A nearly thornless rose bush that produces rich pink flowers with bright yellow centers. Blooms profusely in spring, producing one single flower on each stem. Thrives in full sun and prefers rich, well-drained soil.

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Scarlet pimpernel based on 10 million real cases

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.

Leaf beetles

Leaf beetles are a class of colored insects 1 to 2 cm in size. They gnaw on leaves and petals resulting in small, round holes scattered over the surface.

Solutions: For less serious cases: Remove beetles, nymphs, and eggs. Remove all life stages of the beetles and kill them by placing them in a bucket of warm, soapy water. This can be done more easily by placing the bucket under affected leaves and shaking the plant. This method is most effective in the afternoon when leaf beetles are more active. Always dispose of insects in a sealed bag or container to avoid escape and spread. To treat more serious infestations: Apply organic insecticides. Use naturally-derived insecticides before moving on to synthetic insecticides. Neem oil and pyrethrum are naturally-derived insecticides that should be applied following label instructions. Apply synthetic insecticides. Examples of insecticides effective for leaf beetles include carbaryl, permethrin, and bifenthrin. Apply insecticides according to label instructions.

Caterpillars

Caterpillars are fleshy moth or butterfly larvae that come in an array of colors, patterns, and even hairstyles. They chew on leaves and flower petals, creating large, irregular holes.

Solutions: Even though caterpillars are diverse, they all chew on plant parts and can cause significant damage if present in large numbers. For severe cases: Apply insecticide. For an organic solution, spray plants with a Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), which specifically affects the larval stage of moths and butterflies. Be sure to coat plants, since caterpillars need to ingest Bt for it to be effective. This will not harm other insects. Spray a chili extract. Chili seeds can be cooked in water to make a spicy spray that caterpillars don't like. Spray this mixture on the plants, but be aware it will also be spicy to humans. Introduce beneficial insects. Release beneficial insects to the garden that eat caterpillars, such as parasitic wasps. For less severe cases: Hand pick. Using gloves, pick off caterpillars on plants and dispose of them in a bucket of soapy water. Dust plants with diatomaceous earth. This powder is harmless to humans but irritates caterpillars. Therefore, it will make it difficult for caterpillars to move and eat.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Pasture, non-wetland

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Flower Color

Blue

White

Pink

Purple

Bloom Time

Summer, Early fall

Leaf Color

Green

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.

Symbolism

Appointment, Assignation, Change

Usages

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.

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

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Moisture-loving, keep the soil moist but do not let water accumulate.

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Scarlet pimpernel

Lysimachia arvensis

Also known as: Red chickweed, Shepherd's clock

Planting Time

Spring

Care Guide for Scarlet pimpernel

Water

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial sun

Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

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Questions About Scarlet pimpernel

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Scarlet pimpernel?

What should I do if I water my Scarlet pimpernel too much or too little?

How often should I water my Scarlet pimpernel?

How much water does my Scarlet pimpernel need?

How can I tell if i'm watering my Scarlet pimpernel enough?

How should I water my Scarlet pimpernel through the seasons?

How should I water my Scarlet pimpernel at different growth stages?

What's the difference between watering Scarlet pimpernel indoors and outdoors?

Is pruning necessary for my Scarlet pimpernel?

How do I prune my Scarlet pimpernel?

Are there any cautions I should be careful with when pruning my Scarlet pimpernel?

Are there any tips for pruning my Scarlet pimpernel?

When should/shouldn't I prune my Scarlet pimpernel?

What should I look for when pruning my Scarlet pimpernel in different seasons?

How much sunlight should Scarlet pimpernel get per day to grow healthily?

What type of sunlight does Scarlet pimpernel need?

Can sunlight hurt plants? How to protect Scarlet pimpernel from sun and heat damage?

Should I protect Scarlet pimpernel from sun exposure?

What will happen if Scarlet pimpernel gets inadequate sunlight?

Does Scarlet pimpernel need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

How much light does Scarlet pimpernel need for photosynthesis?

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Scarlet pimpernel?

What is the optimal temperature for Scarlet pimpernel?

Temperature requirements for first year or seedling Scarlet pimpernel

How can I protect Scarlet pimpernel from extreme temperatures?

Dormant season temperature recommendations for Scarlet pimpernel

Why do I need to fertilize my Scarlet pimpernel?

When is the best time to fertilize my Scarlet pimpernel?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Scarlet pimpernel?

What type of fertilizer does my Scarlet pimpernel need?

How do I fertilize my Scarlet pimpernel?

What happens if I fertilize my Scarlet pimpernel too much?

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More About How-Tos

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Scarlet pimpernel based on 10 million real cases

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

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Leaf beetles

Leaf beetles are a class of colored insects 1 to 2 cm in size. They gnaw on leaves and petals resulting in small, round holes scattered over the surface.

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Caterpillars

Caterpillars are fleshy moth or butterfly larvae that come in an array of colors, patterns, and even hairstyles. They chew on leaves and flower petals, creating large, irregular holes.

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Treat and prevent plant diseases.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Pasture, non-wetland

Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Flower Color

Blue

White

Pink

Purple

Bloom Time

Summer, Early fall

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Scarlet pimpernel

Symbolism

Appointment, Assignation, Change

Usages

Garden Use

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

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