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flatbud pricklypoppy

Scientific Name: Argemone munita ssp. munita

Family: Papaveraceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual, Perennial

Other Names:

       

Flatbud Prickly Poppy (Argemone munita)

The Argemone munita, commonly known as flatbud prickly poppy or chicalote, is a striking wildflower found in the western and southwestern United States. Its large, white flowers and prickly stems make it easily identifiable.

Considerations for Pets and Children

  • This plant is a "prickly poppy," suggesting the presence of thorns or spines on the stems and leaves.
  • The plant contains toxic alkaloids.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Argemone munita Durand & Hilg.
  • Common Names: Flatbud prickly poppy, Chicalote
  • Family: Papaveraceae (Poppy Family)
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species
  • Subspecies:
    • Argemone munita subsp. munita
    • Argemone munita ssp. rotundata (Rydb.) G.B. Ownbey
    • Argemone munita subsp. argentea G.B. Ownbey
  • Synonyms: Some entries list synonyms for the subspecies, encouraging users to "learn more about names for this taxon."

Distribution and Habitat

  • Primarily found in the western and southwestern United States.
  • Specific locations mentioned include California and Utah (off of I-70).
  • Thrives in dry and infertile soil.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Perennial forb (a non-woody plant that is not a grass).
  • Flowers are large, up to 5 inches across, with a flat appearance.
  • Petals are white and approximately 2 inches long.
  • Stems and leaves are prickly.

Quirky Facts

  • The species name "munita" means "armed," referring to the plant's prickly nature.
  • The plant contains toxic alkaloids, and is used medicinally as an.
  • In the summer, the plant can assume an orangeyellow coloring.
  • Flowers have papery thin petals.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Beetles have been observed on the petals of the flowers.

Resources

  • Dave's Garden is mentioned as a community for sharing gardening tips.
  • Discover Life provides information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Argemone munita.
  • Stock photo websites like Alamy, Getty Images, iStock, and Visualphotos.com offer images of the plant.