Bog Pimpernel (Anagallis tenella)

Bog Pimpernel

Anagallis tenella

Delicate star-shaped blooms brighten damp habitats. Low-growing perennial herb; common name: Bog Pimpernel.

Partial sun
3–4/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers partial sun to dappled full shade; avoid intense midday summer direct sunlight
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Watering Requires consistently moist soil; suited to boggy conditions, avoid allowing substrate to dry out completely
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Temperature Hardy to mild frosts; thrives in cool to temperate temperatures, intolerant of extreme heat above 28°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, opposite, oval to lanceolate bright green sessile leaves
  • Flower: Solitary 5-petaled star-shaped blooms, pale pink to magenta, opening only in sunlight
  • Stem: Slender creeping stems that root at nodes to form dense mats
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep substrate constantly moist; maintain shallow standing water in saucers for potted plants

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once every 6 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent foliage burn

Banana peel soak:Soak 2-3 banana peels in 1L water for 3 days, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid leaving solid peels in soil to prevent pest issues
Pruning
  • Trim spent flower heads to encourage continuous blooming through the growing season
  • Thin overcrowded trailing stems to improve air circulation and reduce fungal risk
  • Remove yellowing or damaged foliage to maintain a neat mat-forming habit
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic; no adverse effects expected from ingestion or contact

Humans: No known toxicity to humans; safe for handling and accidental ingestion

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental ground cover for bog gardens, damp rockeries, and water garden margins