Oliver and I found the Scarlet Pimpernel just on the outskirts of the park. It isn't common within Calderdale and I do not know where else it can be found in our area so it made our day to find it. Apparently the flowers contain no nectar or scent so very few insects visit it which is surprising considering it so magnificent and bright. The flowers only open between approximately 08.00 and 15.00 and no do open in dull and wet weather and it has been regarded in the past (before we got watches and a weather forecast) as a combined weather gauge and clock.
Scarlet Pimpernel (Anagallis arvensis)
Opposite pairs of leaves.
It has a five veined capsule that will open transversally by a lid when mature.
A very good find. I used to see it only on building sites around Leeds and bring seeds home to grow in pots, but it died out in my garden.
ReplyDeleteIt is fascinating to see the peculiar way the seed capsule opens around the middle, as if a lid comes off, as you point out.