Anagallis_arvensis

The Scarlet pimpernel (Anagallis arvensis) is a small annual, widely distributed in the Maltese Islands. There are two forms which are mainly different in flower colour. The blue flower form is the most common and is striking with its deep coloured blue flowers and bright yellow stamens. The flowers open fully with bright sunlight and partially close in clouded weather. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs with succesive pairs appearing at right angles to the lower pair.