Overview
Anagallis tenella is a matforming herbaceous perennial in the genus Anagallis, part of the Primulaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around Up to 10 cm tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 1-2 years. Anagallis tenella grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, hanging basket and patio and container plants.
About
This perennial forms a dense mat and reaches a height of approximately 10 cm. It features small, elliptical to rounded leaves that are a vibrant green. In late spring and early summer, it produces upward-facing, subtly fragrant flowers that measure about 10 mm in diameter and are deep pink in color.
About the genus
Anagallis comprises both annual and evergreen perennial plants that grow in a spreading manner. They feature small leaves and produce solitary flowers with five petals, shaped like shallow cups.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Anagallis
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand, Clay
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Anagallis tenella size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Matforming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- Up to 10 cm
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 1-2 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Hanging basket, Patio and container plants
- Fragrance
- Flower
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Anagallis tenella
- Cultivation
- Under glass grow in gritty, peat-free, loam-based potting compost (John Innes No.1) in full light; outdoors grow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun and overwinter young plants in a cool greenhouse - plant out after the risk of frost has passed
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering
- Propagation
- Propagate by softwood tip cuttings in spring or early summer; may be short-lived so propagate regularly
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to aphids
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Anagallis tenella?
Under glass grow in gritty, peat-free, loam-based potting compost (John Innes No.1) in full light; outdoors grow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun and overwinter young plants in a cool greenhouse - plant out after the risk of frost has passed.
Where is the best place to plant Anagallis tenella?
Anagallis tenella prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Anagallis tenella need?
Anagallis tenella is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam, sand and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Anagallis tenella?
Cut back after flowering.
How big does Anagallis tenella grow?
Anagallis tenella reaches a height of Up to 10 cm and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 1-2 years to reach full size.
Is Anagallis tenella hardy in the UK?
Anagallis tenella has a UK hardiness rating of H4.
How do I propagate Anagallis tenella?
Propagate by softwood tip cuttings in spring or early summer; may be short-lived so propagate regularly.