The Genus Anagallis is commonly referred to as the scarlet pimpernel or the red pimpernel. The plant has a distinct bright red flower with five petals and can often be found in damp or shady areas. Other common synonyms for Genus Anagallis include milkmaids, shepherd's weatherglass, and poor man's weatherglass. These names refer to the plant's ability to predict the weather and farmers would use the plant to determine whether it was suitable for their animals to graze. While the Genus Anagallis is commonly known for its bright red flowers, there are also variegated and blue varieties of the plant.