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tree poppy

Scientific Name: Dendromecon rigida ssp. rigida

Family: Papaveraceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Shrub, Tree

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Romneya coulteri: The Majestic California Tree Poppy

The Romneya coulteri, commonly known as the California Tree Poppy, Matilija Poppy, or Coulter's Matilija Poppy, is a stunning flowering plant that brings a touch of the Californian landscape to gardens worldwide.

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant has stems that become strong and spreading as it matures.

Considerations for Children

  • The plant has stems that become strong and spreading as it matures.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Romneya coulteri
  • Common Names: California Tree Poppy, Matilija Poppy, Coulter's Matilija Poppy, Mission Poppy, Fried Egg Plant, White Cloud, Giant White Californian Poppy, Californian Poppy Bush
  • Synonyms: Romneya hybrida, Romneya vandedenii, Romneya 'White Cloud'
  • Family: Papaveraceae (Poppy family)
  • Genus: Romneya

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to southern California and northern Mexico.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Deciduous, upright shrub.
  • Grows into a large, spreading clump.
  • Features grey-green leaves that have a soft and delicate look.
  • Known for its large, crepe-paper-like white flowers with a central yellow "boss" (stamens).
  • Fast-growing, reaching up to 5 feet tall.
  • Produces fragrant flowers.
  • Has silvery-blue foliage.

Quirky Facts

  • The flowers are sometimes called "fried egg plant" due to their appearance.
  • It's known as the toughest and most beautiful of all poppies.
  • The flowers are heavily scented and have golden pom-poms that bloom for up to 4 months.
  • The flowers look like crumpled white silk.

Cultivation

  • Requires fertile soil.
  • Revels in summer heat.
  • Prefers poor soil.
  • Can be tricky to establish and resents transplanting, but spreads readily once established.
  • Makes an excellent specimen plant for a sunny mixed border.

Further Information

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