pimpernel

1 9.9

A small low plant with bright star-shaped flowers and sometimes edible leaves

noun
/ˈpɪmpərˌnɛl/

: pimprenel

I cannot say why the dandelion that blooms at seven enfolds itself at five, nor why the pimpernel withdraws at night.

Examples

She added fresh pimpernel leaves to her salad for extra flavor.
I'm here to pick up the pimpernels I ordered.

The Black Pimpernel (2007)
The garden was full of vibrant pimpernels that attracted many bees and butterflies.
During our hike, we noticed lovely pimpernels growing along the path.

Synonyms

Anagallis

vspimpernel

Specialized

9.9

A small herb with bright, open flowers like the scarlet pimpernel

refers to a specific low-growing plant within that genus, sometimes edible

Compounds

bastard pimpernel

Specialized

9.9

A small weed with short dry leaves that grows in dry, disturbed soil

blue pimpernel

Specialized

9.9

A small North American mint plant that people once used to stop muscle spasms

bog pimpernel

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A small creeping plant with delicate pink flowers that grows in wet ground

false pimpernel

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A small plant like a weed with short dry leaves that looks like a pimpernel

red pimpernel

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A small garden flower with red petals that close before rain

scarlet pimpernel

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A small plant with bright red, white, or purple flowers that close when rain comes

water pimpernel

Specialized

9.9

A small plant with white flowers that grows in wet places

yellow pimpernel

9.8

A low trailing evergreen plant with small yellow flowers that grows in damp woods

Surface Forms

pimpernel singular

pimpernels plural

Etymology

Pimpernel comes from old French and Latin names for small herbs, especially the Latin word pimpinella, which means 'anise' (a small fragrant herb). So, think of the pimpernel as a tiny, low-growing, fragrant plant with bright, star-shaped flowers to help you remember the real wildflower.