How to Grow Scarlet Pimpernel
Wikimedia Commons
Scarlet Pimpernel
Anagallis arvensis
flowerScarlet Pimpernel is a delicate annual flowering plant native to Europe and the Mediterranean region, known for its brilliant scarlet (sometimes pink or blue) five-petaled flowers. The flowers close in cloudy weather, earning it the nickname 'Poor Man's Barometer.' It has become naturalized in many temperate regions and is valued as an ornamental plant and traditional herbal remedy.
When should you plant Scarlet Pimpernel in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Scarlet Pimpernel timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Scarlet Pimpernel
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
First Scarlet Pimpernel blooms
Around Jun 1≈ 45 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Scarlet Pimpernel dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; prefers cooler to moderate climates
Sign up free to see if Scarlet Pimpernel grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Scarlet Pimpernel timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings emerge with opposite, oval cotyledons and develop small lance-shaped true leaves
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once true leaves appear.
Vegetative
2-3 weeksPlant develops trailing or mounding habit with opposite linear to lance-shaped leaves and increasingly bushy growth
Water moderately. Pinch back growth tips to encourage bushiness if desired. No heavy fertilizing needed; excess nitrogen reduces flowering.
Flowering
6-8 weeks or until frostDelicate five-petaled flowers in scarlet, pink, or occasionally blue appear at leaf axils; flowers open in morning sunshine and close in afternoon or cloudy weather
Deadhead spent flowers to extend bloom season. Water during dry spells. Watch for spider mites in hot, dry conditions.
Seed Production
3-4 weeksAfter pollination, round seed capsules form at flower sites; capsules mature and darken as seeds ripen
Allow some flowers to remain for seed production if desired for self-seeding next season. Collect capsules before they fully shatter.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Increase humidity and water spray foliage. Use insecticidal soap if severe. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen.
-
Spray with water to dislodge. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil if populations are heavy.
-
Use yellow sticky traps. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap. Ensure good air circulation.
-
Improve air circulation. Remove affected leaves. Spray with sulfur or baking soda solution if needed.
Uses
Garden Ornament & Cottage Flower
OrnamentalScarlet Pimpernel's brilliant scarlet blooms make it a charming addition to cottage gardens, borders, and wildflower meadows. Its ability to close flowers in response to weather changes adds an intriguing natural phenomenon to garden observation. [source]
Traditional Herbal Remedy
MedicinalHistorically used in European folk medicine for skin conditions, respiratory complaints, and as a general tonic, though efficacy is not well-established by modern medicine. The plant contains saponins and has been used in traditional preparations. [source]
Edible Flower Garnish
CulinaryThe petals are edible with a slightly peppery flavor and can be used as a delicate garnish for salads and desserts, though they should be consumed in moderation. They add visual appeal to contemporary plating. [source]
Natural Dye Source
HouseholdThe plant has been historically used to produce red and orange dyes, though results are subtle. It remains an interesting option for natural dye experiments and crafting. [source]
Pollinator Magnet
WildlifeScarlet Pimpernel attracts bees and other small insects that visit the flowers for nectar and pollen, supporting pollinator populations in gardens and wild spaces. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
For ornamental use, pick flowers at their peak when fully open in morning sunshine to enjoy their vibrant color indoors (flowers close in afternoon). For seed collection, allow flowers to mature into seed capsules, then harvest capsules when they turn brown but before they shatter, dry them indoors, and extract seeds. Harvest can extend throughout the blooming season until frost.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Scarlet Pimpernel flowers are barometers of weather—they close up in the afternoon or when rain approaches, leading to the folk name 'Poor Man's Weather Glass' or 'Shepherd's Clock.'
- 🌱 The plant famously inspired the literary hero 'The Scarlet Pimpernel' by Baroness Emma Orczy (1905), a tale of an English aristocrat rescuing French nobles during the Revolution.
- 🌱 Despite its name, Scarlet Pimpernel flowers can appear in shades of pink, lilac, or even blue, depending on soil pH and genetic variation—the scarlet form is most common but not exclusive.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Scarlet Pimpernel planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Scarlet Pimpernel seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Scarlet Pimpernel timeline →