Scarlet Pimpernel (Anagallis arvensis)


Also classified in the genus Lysimachia. These are unmistakable flowers, little bursts of scarlet popping out of sidewalk cracks and dry banks. They open only in fine weather and close, apparently in response to a drop in barometric pressure, if a storm is coming: thus another common name, “Poor Man’s Weatherglass.” These pictures were taken June 10 along the Mon on the South Side—in fine weather, as the flowers are happy to tell you.

Baroness Orczy’s crusading fop took his name from these flowers.

For a fuller description, see the Anagallis arvensis reference page.


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