What is the scarlet pimpernel flower?

Anagallis arvensis, commonly known as the scarlet pimpernel flower, is a low-growing plant that produces orange or red-colored flowers. The University of California states that the plant can be toxic to humans and to animals if ingested. The plant is from the genus Anagallis, and the family is Primulaceae.

This flower originates from Europe, West Asia and North Africa. According to IEWF, the stems can grow to 30 centimeters, or nearly a foot tall. The plant bears fruit that is located along the stem. Leaves are oval and are across from each other on the long, branch-like stem. Flowering often occurs between March and July.