SafePlants

Mojave Prickly Poppy (Argemone corymbosa)

The Mojave Prickly Poppy, scientifically known as Argemone corymbosa, is a striking flowering plant found in the arid landscapes of the southwestern United States.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is called the "Prickly Poppy" due to its bristly nature and the presence of spines, which may pose a hazard to pets if they attempt to ingest or interact with the plant.
• "Plenty of spikes" are mentioned in the context of this plant.

Considerations for Children

• The plant is called the "Prickly Poppy" due to its bristly nature and the presence of spines, which may pose a hazard to children if they attempt to ingest or interact with the plant.
• "Plenty of spikes" are mentioned in the context of this plant.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Argemone corymbosa Greene
• Family: Papaveraceae (Poppy Family)
• Rank: Subspecies (e.g., Argemone corymbosa ssp. arenicola G.B.)

Common Names

• Mojave Prickly Poppy
• Prickly Poppy
• Desert Prickly Poppy
• Mojave Pricklypoppy
• Leafy Prickly Poppy
• Mohave Prickly Poppy

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the eastern Mojave Desert of the southwestern United States.
• Specifically found in areas like the Amargosa Desert Dune Field (Big Dune) near Beatty, Nevada, and the Lake Mead Area, Nevada.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• A perennial forb/herb. Forb/herb is a non-woody plant that is not a grass.
• Bristly and erect, typically reaching 16 to 32 inches in height.
• Flowers are large (up to 5 inches across) and flat, with very white, crepe-like petals.
• Flowers are typically 2-3 inches across with yellow stamens
• Produces a 1-inch ovulate capsule.

Ecological Role

• The Mojave Prickly Poppy is a spring bloomer in the Mojave Desert.

Resources and Further Information

• Encyclopedia of Life
• Discover Life
• Encyclopaedia Britannica
• San Diego Botanical Gardens