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tree poppy

Scientific Name: Dendromecon rigida

Family: Papaveraceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Shrub, Tree

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Romneya coulteri: The Californian Tree Poppy

Romneya coulteri, commonly known as the Californian tree poppy, Matilija poppy, or Coulter's Matilija poppy, is a captivating flowering plant prized for its large, fragrant flowers and impressive size.

Considerations for Pets

  • This plant produces sap.

Considerations for Children

  • This plant produces sap.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Romneya coulteri
  • Common Names: Californian tree poppy, Matilija poppy, Coulter's Matilija poppy, fried egg plant, mission poppy, White Cloud
  • Synonyms: Romneya hybrida, Romneya vandedenii, Romneya 'White Cloud'
  • Family: Papaveraceae (Poppy family)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to southern California and northern Mexico.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Deciduous, upright shrub with grey-green leaves that have a delicate appearance.
  • Known for its large, spreading clumps with strong stems.
  • Reaches a height of approximately 5 feet and forms large clumps.
  • Features large, crepe-paper white flowers with a central yellow 'boss' (prominent stamens).

Quirky Facts

  • The flowers are often described as resembling crumpled white silk with golden yellow stamens.
  • One common name, "fried egg plant," alludes to the flower's appearance with a white petal base and central yellow disk.

Cultivation

  • Considered an excellent specimen plant for a sunny mixed border.
  • Requires fertile soil.
  • Can be slow to establish and may resent disturbance (transplanting).
  • Once established, it spreads readily.
  • Revels in summer heat.

Further Information

  • Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)
  • Dave's Garden
  • Caerhays Castle