Argemone albiflora
prickly poppy
An upright annual or biennial with dark blue-green, thistly-like prickly foliage and large, poppy-like white flowers with yellow to red centres appearing in the summer. Releases a milky, latex-like sap when crushed. Although individual flowers do not last long, they provide continuous blooming collectively. A great addition to a wildflower meadow or wildlife garden
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green Blue | ||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Papaveraceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Potentially harmful
- Sap may irritate skin. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Argemone can be annuals, perennials or shrubs, often prickly, with simple, lobed or spiny leaves and showy poppy-like flowers in summer followed by large, often spiny fruits
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in well-drained sandy soil in sun or partial shade
Propagation
Propagate by seed. Self-seeds easily in situ
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Prairie planting
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
- Low Maintenance
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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