The scarlet pimpernel, scientifically known as Anagallis arvensis, is a well-known plant in Europe that has spread to various regions around the world. This plant blooms from June to September, showcasing small red or blue flowers with five petals, each adorned with fine hairs along the edges. Although some view it as a weed, the scarlet pimpernel possesses an intriguing ability – it can predict the weather. For centuries in England and Scotland, it was referred to as the “Shepherd’s Weather-Glass,” “Old Man’s Weathervane,” or “Poor Man’s Barometer” due to this remarkable forecasting skill. When the weather is fair, the flowers remain open, but they close up as atmospheric pressure drops and bad weather looms. Keep an eye on local scarlet pimpernel growth this summer to witness its reaction to changing weather conditions. If the name scarlet pimpernel rings a bell, it might be because of a popular book and film from the 20th century featuring a fictional hero with the same name, known for rescuing aristocrats during the French Revolution rather than predicting the weather.
