Pimpernel | Bastard

It typically grows only 2 to 8 centimeters tall. The stems are reddish and often branched from the base.

While widely distributed across Europe and parts of North America, it is often listed as rare or declining in certain regions due to habitat loss and the stabilization of soil surfaces. The Origin of the Name

Modern taxonomy often places it in the genus Lysimachia (as Lysimachia minima ), though older texts almost universally refer to it as Centunculus minimus . Conservation Status bastard pimpernel

It thrives in moist, sandy, or gravelly soils that are low in nutrients.

The leaves are small, egg-shaped, and arranged alternately along the stem. It typically grows only 2 to 8 centimeters tall

Bastard Pimpernel is a pioneer species, meaning it is often among the first to colonize disturbed or bare ground.

Because it is so small and easily overlooked, the true population levels of Bastard Pimpernel can be difficult to track. However, it is considered a in several areas because it relies on "early successional" habitats—places that are periodically disturbed. Without such disturbance, larger plants eventually shade it out. The Origin of the Name Modern taxonomy often

It was named for its superficial resemblance to the Scarlet Pimpernel ( Anagallis arvensis ), though it is significantly smaller and less colorful.