Anagellis Tenella - Marginal Pond Plants - BP006

Anagallis tenella, commonly known as Bog Pimpernel or Irish Moss, is a charming, low-growing perennial prized for its delicate foliage and vibrant pink flowers. This versatile plant is ideal for damp, boggy areas, pond margins, or as ground cover in moist garden settings.

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Description

Anagallis tenella grows to a height of 5–10 cm (2–4 inches) with a spreading habit that can cover 30–60 cm (12–24 inches). It forms a mat of creeping stems with small, rounded green leaves that create a lush, moss-like appearance.

From late spring to early autumn (May to September), the plant produces small, star-shaped flowers in shades of pale pink to deep rose. These blooms appear singly along the stems, adding a subtle yet beautiful splash of colour to moist garden areas.

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Growing Conditions

Anagallis tenella thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers consistently moist or waterlogged soil. It is well-suited to acidic to neutral soils and grows naturally in bogs, wet meadows, and pond edges.

This plant is hardy in the UK and tolerates frost, making it a reliable choice for temperate climates. Its preference for damp conditions makes it ideal for gardens with high moisture levels or those incorporating water features.

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Propagation and Care

Anagallis tenella is propagated by division, cuttings, or seed. Division and cuttings are the easiest methods:

• Division: Lift clumps in spring or autumn and separate them into smaller sections before replanting in moist soil.
• Cuttings: Take softwood cuttings in spring or summer and root them in a damp, sandy medium.

Routine care includes:

• Keeping the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells.
• Cutting back stems in late autumn to encourage fresh growth in spring.
• Dividing clumps every 2–3 years to maintain vigour and prevent overcrowding.

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Uses

Ornamental:
Anagallis tenella is perfect for pond margins, bog gardens, and other wet areas where its delicate foliage and pink flowers provide a soft, naturalistic look. It pairs beautifully with other moisture-loving plants like Caltha palustris (Marsh Marigold) and Iris sibirica (Siberian Iris).

Ground Cover:
Its low, creeping habit makes it an excellent ground cover for damp, shaded areas or between stepping stones in moisture-retentive soil.

Naturalized Planting:
This plant thrives in wildflower gardens and naturalized landscapes, blending seamlessly into wetland or meadow environments.

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Ecological Value

Anagallis tenella supports pollinators, including bees and butterflies, with its nectar-rich flowers. Its spreading habit provides shelter for small insects and contributes to biodiversity in wetland areas.

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Considerations

• Moisture Needs: Consistently damp or waterlogged soil is essential. The plant will struggle in dry or well-drained conditions.
• Winter Protection: Although hardy, providing a layer of mulch in colder regions can help protect the plant during severe winters.
• Non-Invasiveness: While it spreads naturally, it is not aggressive and can be managed easily in confined spaces.

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Summary

Anagallis tenella is a delightful and versatile plant that thrives in wet conditions, making it ideal for bog gardens, pond edges, and other moisture-retentive areas. Its low-growing habit, delicate foliage, and vibrant pink flowers add charm and ecological value to garden spaces. Whether used as ground cover, in naturalized plantings, or to enhance water features, Bog Pimpernel brings a touch of elegance and natural beauty to any garden.

Why Choose Anagallis tenella?

Anagallis tenella, commonly known as Bog Pimpernel or Trailing Pimpernel, is a delicate, low-growing perennial prized for its charming pink flowers and creeping habit. Perfect for moist or boggy areas, this plant adds softness and beauty to pond edges, wetland gardens, and damp borders.

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1. Beautiful Pink Flowers

• Anagallis tenella features small, star-shaped pink flowers with a striking yellow center that bloom throughout late spring and summer.
• The dainty blooms create a soft, elegant display that brightens up damp garden spaces.

2. Creeping, Mat-Forming Habit

• This plant’s prostrate stems spread to form a dense, creeping mat, making it ideal for ground cover or filling gaps around water features.
• Its lush green foliage complements its delicate flowers, adding year-round texture and interest.

3. Thrives in Wet and Moist Conditions

• Anagallis tenella thrives in consistently moist to wet soils, making it perfect for planting around pond edges, in bog gardens, or even in shallow water.
• It performs best in full sun to partial shade, ensuring healthy growth and abundant blooms.

4. Wildlife-Friendly

• The nectar-rich flowers attract bees and other pollinators, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden.
• Its low, dense foliage provides shelter for small creatures, making it an excellent addition to wildlife-friendly spaces.

5. Low Maintenance and Adaptable

• Once established, Anagallis tenella is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care.
• Its adaptability to wet conditions and resilience make it an easy choice for gardeners looking to enhance damp areas of their garden.

6. Versatile Garden Use

• Ideal for pond edges, bog gardens, or wetland landscapes, where its creeping habit softens hard edges and creates a naturalistic look.
• Perfect as a ground cover in moist borders or as part of a wildlife garden, blending seamlessly with other moisture-loving plants.

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Key Features

• Height: 5–10 cm (2–4 inches)
• Flowers: Star-shaped pink blooms with yellow centers, appearing in late spring and summer
• Soil: Consistently moist to wet soil
• Light: Full sun to partial shade

Anagallis tenella is a charming and versatile perennial that thrives in moist and boggy areas, adding softness and elegance to your garden. Its delicate flowers, creeping habit, and adaptability make it a must-have for enhancing the beauty and biodiversity of wetland and pondside landscapes.