Nomenclature

Species name:

Anagallis foemina   Miller

Author(s):

Philip Miller;
   England, 1691-1771

Principal Synonyms:

Anagallis arvensis ssp. foemina, Anagallis arvensis subs. caerulea, Anagallis caerulea

Common names:

Blue Pimpernel, Poorman's Weatherglass

Maltese names:

ħarira Kahla

Plant Family:

Primulaceae   (Primrose Family)

Status:

Indigenous. Originating from the Maltese islands

Remarks:

There are 2 closely related species, previously classified as subspecies of the taxon Anagallis arvensisL. These are Anagallis arvensis (Anagallis arvensis subs. arvensis) and Anagallis foemina (Anagallis arvensis subs. foemina). The latter is distinguished by having the flower pedicels equal or shorter from the subtending leaflet (see pic) and the corolla is concealed by the calyx in the bud stage. Additionally, Anagallis foeminais described to have a blue corolla whilst Anagallis arvensis may have blue, scarlet or pale red corollas. Today, they are accepted as 2 different species. -

Specifications & Description

Life Cycle:

Annual or Biennial.

Growth Form:

THEROPHYTE (Annuals)

Habitat:

Waste and cultivated places. Less often on soily garigue.

Frequency:

Rare

Localities in Malta:

Much more rare than the common Anagallis arvensis. One specimen was found at Dingli Cliffs and another at Mistra valley.

Plant Height:

5-50cm (stem length).

Flowering Period:

Feb - Jul

Protection in Malta:

Not Protected by Law (LN200/2011 or LN311/2006)

Red List 1989:

Not listed in the Flora section of the National Red Data Book (Lanfranco, 1989)

Poison:

Data not available

Photo Gallery (6 images)

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