Anagallis tenella - Bog Pimpernel, Native Bog Plant

Anagallis tenella (now often listed as Lysimachia tenella), known as bog pimpernel, is a tiny UK native that forms a low mat of small, rounded leaves. From June to September it is covered in pale pink, finely veined flowers that open fully in sunshine.

Bog pimpernel at a glance

Botanical name	Anagallis tenella (syn. Lysimachia tenella)
Common name	Bog pimpernel
Plant type	Low, creeping, semi-evergreen perennial
Height and spread	Up to 10 cm tall, spreading up to 50 cm
Flowers	Small, pale pink with darker veins, June to September
Position	Full sun
Soil	Very wet, low-nutrient, acid to neutral soil
Pond depth	0–10 cm, or very wet soil at the pond edge
Hardiness	Hardy (no RHS H-rating for the species); may be short-lived in severe winters
Native to	UK and Ireland (native wild flower)

Where to plant bog pimpernel

Bog gardens with wet, acid, low-nutrient soil
The very edge of a wildlife pond, up to 10 cm deep
Wet, sandy or peaty ground

How to plant and care for it

Plant in spring in full sun and keep it wet at all times. It dislikes rich soil and fertiliser, so do not feed it. It is delicate and can be short-lived, so let it creep into new ground where it can.

Which size should I buy?

Bare-root plants (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive without a pot or compost and are the most economical way to plant a group. Potted plants (9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive growing in our peat-free compost and give a faster display. Packs of 3 cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.