SafePlants

Romneya coulteri: The Californian Tree Poppy

Romneya coulteri, commonly known as the Californian tree poppy, Coulter's Matilija poppy, Matilija poppy, or simply tree poppy, is a stunning flowering plant admired for its large, fragrant white flowers.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

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

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to southern California and northern Mexico.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• An upright, deciduous shrub with grey-green leaves that have a soft and delicate look.
• When thriving, it forms a large, spreading clump with strong stems.
• Characterized by large, crepe-paper white flowers with a central yellow "boss" of stamens.
• Fast-growing, potentially reaching 5 feet tall and forming large clumps.

Quirky Facts

• The flowers are sometimes referred to as looking like "fried eggs" due to their white petals and yellow centers.
• The plant is known for its crumpled white silk-like flowers with showy golden yellow stamens.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is in the poppy family (Papaveraceae).

Considerations for Children

• The plant is in the poppy family (Papaveraceae).

Additional Information

• The plant is a deserving holder of the Royal Horticultural Society's prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM).
• It is often slow to establish and resents disturbance.
• Once established, it can spread readily.

Resources

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