Botanical name: Anagallis arvensis
General Information: Scarlet Pimpernel also known as ‘Poor Man’s Weatherglass’ is an annual weed. The leaves are very similar to Common Chickweed, but can be identified by its square stems and red flower (chickweed stems are round and the flower is white).
Scarlet Pimpernel will mostly cause problems on neglected lawns, rarely is it found on managed turf.
Identification
- Leaf: As previously mentioned the leaves are very similar in appearance to Common Chickweed. They are light green in colour, egg or oval shaped and from in pairs at intervals on the stems.
- Flower: The distinct flowers of Scarlet Pimpernel can be seen from June – September. Each flower has five petals and are an orange – red colour.
- Preferred habitat: Scarlet Pimpernel favours damp soil conditions.
Control: As we have previously stated this weed is more of a problem in rough and neglected lawns and can be eradicated with regular mowing.
It should not be a problem in luxury lawns. A selective weed killer containing 2,4-D mecoprop and dicamba should control this weed but a further application about 6 weeks later may be necessary.
Scarlet Pimpernel Images (click image to enlarge)
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