This annual plant with a Mediterranean distribution, of ancient introduction into the northernmost part of its present distributional range, is present in almost all regions of Italy (missing only in Valle d'Aosta), but is more frequent in Central and Southern Italy. It grows in cultivated fields and in communities of annual grasses, often in disturbed sites near settlements, on moderately dry clay soils which are rich in nitrogen compounds, below the montane belt. The species is common in the outer belt of the Sardinian temporary ponds. It is easily confused with the blue-flowered form of A. arvensis. The plant contains saponins and is weakly toxic; it should be advised not to use it in salads, especially in large quantities. The genus name Lysimachia comes from Lysimachus, an ancient Greek physician; the genus name of the synonym (Anagallis) is derived from the Greek 'ana' (again) and 'agallein' (give joy), for the continuous, bright flowering. Flowering period: April to October. Syn.: Anagallis foemina Mill.

Italian name(s): Anagallis femmina (Italia), Centonchio azzurro (Italia), Erba de puddas a florixeddus asulus (Sardegna), Erva di Gaddini (Sicilia, Etna), Morsellina (Campania), Oeggi d'Madonna (Liguria, Masone).