Matilija Poppy
- DIVISION: Tracheophyta (vascular plants)
- CLASS: Magnoliopsida (dicotyledons)
- ORDER: Ranunculales
- FAMILY: Papaveraceae
- GENUS: Romneya
- SPECIES: coulteri
OVERVIEW
For obvious reasons, the matilija poppy is often called the "fried-egg plant." Its blossoms' sunny-side-up appearance makes it a striking addition to a garden, especially since its flower stalks can grow 6 to 8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 meters) tall.
This plant has a huge flower but a small native range—it grows naturally in chaparral and coastal scrub habitats in Southern California and Baja California, Mexico.
CHARACTERISTICS
Averaging 5 to 6 inches (13 to 15 centimeters) in diameter, the Matilija poppy blossom is the largest of any native California plant. The thin, wrinkled petals look as if they are made of crepe paper.
Even without its large, crinkled, and fragrant flowers, its frilled blue-gray leaves make this clumping perennial an attractive plant. But beware, it can be invasive, as it spreads through underground runners. (One person reported a new plant up about 20 feet from the original shrub!)
CULTIVATION
How can a plant be both aggressive and finicky? Location, location, location. Plant a Matilija poppy in the wrong place, and it will wither and die. However, if you happen to choose just the right spot, it will settle in nicely—and in later years may colonize your garden.
They tend to prefer gravelly soil, so choose a well-draining spot. In nature, they are often found in sunny chaparral and coastal sage scrub communities; sometimes along stream banks and roadsides.
In nature, the seeds only germinate after a fire (don't try this at home), so the best option is to purchase a plant from a nursery. Experts strongly urge caution during transplant—the roots don't like to be disturbed. Planting in the fall is best, as it gives the plant a chance to acclimate during winter rains.
Rationing water during the summer may keep the plant in check. It is also advised to cut the plant to just a few inches tall in the fall—it will roar back to life soon enough.
USES
With its vigorous root system, this plant makes a great erosion-preventative when planted on slopes. And given its expansive nature, it can be a showstopper in an extremely large area of landscaping, especially as a wide border treatment.
