Odontites vernus NS6763 5Aug18 CJ
This shows the alternating pairs of leaves clearly.
Odontites vernus NS6258 14July23 PW
Looking down you see the leaves alternating in opposite pairs. This appearance can persist throughout the winter after it has died back.
Odontites vernus NS6258 14July23 PW
It often has this reddish tinge in the stem and leaves
Odontites vernus NS7151 17Aug2017 PW
The hairy, reddish stem and alternating pairs of hairy, strap-like leaves.
Odontites vernus NS7151 17Aug2017 PW
In longer grass, it can just be “messy”.
Odontites vernus NS7151 17Aug2017 PW
Odontites vernus - Red Bartsia
This semi-parasitic plant is widespread in grassland and waste-ground. It can grow to be large, but usually has this four-square appearance when viewed from above.
Yellow Bartsia belongs to a different but related family.