Lysimachia monelli
Common name
blue pimpernel, flaxleaf pimpernel, Mediterranean pimpernel, Italian pimpernel
Synonyms
Anagallis monelli L.; A. monellii; A. collina; A. linifolia
Family
Primulaceae
Flora category
Vascular – Exotic
Structural class
Herbs - Dicotyledons other than Composites
Conservation status
Not applicable
Habitat
Gravel adjoining planted garden
Flower colours
Blue
Life cycle
Perennial, tap-rooted, sprawling herb. Seed is produced, seedlings have been found near planted areas.
Year naturalised
2014
Origin
Western Europe
Reason for introduction
Ornamental
Etymology
monelli: After French horticulturist Jean Monelle. He was responsible for introducing a number of plants into France, including the pimpernel with the large blue flowers.
Attribution
Prepared for NZPCN by Colin Ogle 6 March 2014
References and further reading
Manns, Ulrika; Anderberg, Arne A. (July 2009). “New combinations and names in Lysimachia (Myrsinaceae) for species of Anagallis, Pelletiera and Trientalis”.Willdenowia 39 (1): 49–54.