Anagallis is a formerly recognized genus of approximately 20–25 species of flowering plants in the primrose family (Primulaceae, order Ericales), commonly known as pimpernels. Molecular phylogenetic studies published around 2009 demonstrated that Anagallis was phylogenetically embedded within the genus Lysimachia, and all species have since been transferred there. As treated under Lysimachia (sensu lato), these are perennial herbs generally lacking rosettes, with erect to prostrate stems that are often stoloniferous and may be glabrous or pubescent with multicellular glandular hairs near the apex. The leaves are opposite, alternate, or occasionally whorled. Flowers are borne in racemes, panicles, corymbs, or singly in leaf axils; the sepals are free and the corolla may be yellow, white, pinkish, red, orange, or blue. Staminodes are absent and the ovary is superior. The fruit is a capsule that dehisces from the apex, typically splitting via five valves or occasionally irregularly or transversely (circumscissile). The best-known member is Anagallis arvensis (now Lysimachia arvensis), the scarlet pimpernel, long celebrated in literature and herbal tradition.
Etymology
The genus name Anagallis derives from the Greek ana (ἀνα-, 'again') and agállein (ἀγάλλειν, 'to delight in'), referring to the way the flowers open and close in response to environmental conditions such as light and weather.
Distribution
The group of plants formerly placed in Anagallis (now part of Lysimachia sensu lato) has a cosmopolitan distribution, with greatest diversity in the Northern Hemisphere. In Australia, eight species occur across all mainland states and Tasmania. The scarlet pimpernel (Anagallis arvensis) in particular is a widespread weed of cultivation found on every continent except Antarctica.
Taxonomy Notes
Anagallis was historically recognized as a distinct genus within Primulaceae (sometimes placed in Myrsinaceae). However, molecular phylogenetic studies showed that Anagallis was nested within Lysimachia, rendering both genera non-monophyletic. The merger was formally proposed in 2009, and by March 2025 it had been accepted by Plants of the World Online and other major taxonomic databases. Note: GBIF still lists Anagallis as an accepted genus as of 2026, reflecting a lag in taxonomic harmonization.
