Description
Anagallis tenella, commonly known as Bog Pimpernel, is a charming, low‑growing marginal plant perfect for softening pond edges and creating a natural, meadow‑style feel. Its fine, trailing stems weave gently across damp soil, producing clusters of tiny, shell‑pink flowers through summer. This species thrives in moist conditions, making it ideal for wildlife ponds, stream margins, and naturalistic planting schemes where subtle texture and gentle colour are desired.
🌟 Key Features
- Delicate pink flowers — soft, subtle blooms that add natural charm
- Creeping habit — ideal for softening pond edges and filling gaps
- Wildlife‑friendly — provides shelter for insects and ground‑level pollinators
- Thrives in damp soil — perfect for pond margins and bog gardens
- Low‑maintenance — spreads gently without becoming invasive
📐 Technical Details
- Height: 5–10 cm
- Spread: 20–40 cm
- Planting Depth: Moist soil at pond edge (not submerged)
- Growth Habit: Creeping, mat‑forming
- Position: Full sun to partial shade
- Flowering Period: June–August
- Hardiness: Fully hardy (UK)
🌱 Planting & Care
Plant Anagallis tenella in consistently moist soil around the pond edge or in a bog garden. It prefers cool, damp conditions and will spread gently to form a soft carpet. Trim lightly if it grows beyond the desired area. Ideal for naturalistic schemes, wildlife ponds, and soft transitions between land and water.
🌿 Unique Companion Plant Suggestions
- Mazus reptans — a low, creeping groundcover with lilac flowers that complements Anagallis’ soft texture.
- Primula vialii — striking red‑to‑purple flower spikes add vertical contrast to the creeping habit.
- Hydrocotyle vulgaris (Marsh Pennywort) — rounded leaves create a natural, wetland look alongside Anagallis.
- Galium palustre (Marsh Bedstraw) — fine, airy foliage pairs beautifully with Bog Pimpernel’s delicate stems.
- Stellaria alsine (Bog Stitchwort) — small white flowers provide a gentle colour contrast in damp margins.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will Anagallis tenella grow in shallow water
A: No — it prefers damp soil and should not be submerged.
Q: Is it suitable for wildlife ponds
A: Yes — its creeping habit provides excellent cover for insects and amphibians.
Q: Does it spread aggressively
A: It spreads gently and is easy to manage with light trimming.
Q: Can it grow in shade
A: It tolerates partial shade but flowers best with some sun.
📦 What You Receive
A healthy, nursery‑grown Anagallis tenella supplied in a quality aquatic pot, ready for planting at the pond edge or in a bog garden. Plants are securely packaged to arrive in excellent condition.
🚚 Delivery & Returns
Fast, reliable delivery with plants packed for freshness and protection. Returns accepted if your plant arrives damaged or fails to establish.
💬 Need Help?
If you’d like help building a naturalistic pond‑edge scheme or choosing complementary low‑growing marginals, we’re here to help.





