Glaucium
Contents
Description
Glaucium is a genus of plants in the family Papaveraceae that originated from the Mediterranean region. Also known as horned poppy or sea poppy, Glaucium is a perennial herbaceous plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall. It is characterized by its large, showy flowers that bloom in shades of orange, yellow, and red. Glaucium is often grown for its aesthetic appeal and medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Papaveraceae |
| Genus | Glaucium |
Appearance
Glaucium is a large, bold plant with deeply lobed leaves that have a bluish-green hue. The flowers of Glaucium are large and showy, ranging in color from yellow to red. They have a unique, horned shape that gives the plant its common name. Glaucium is a hardy plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it a great addition to any garden or landscape.
Care Guide
Glaucium is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for Glaucium:
- Water: Glaucium prefers well-drained soil and should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- Fertilization: Fertilize Glaucium once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Glaucium prefers well-drained, sandy soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: Glaucium prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Glaucium is hardy in zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
While Glaucium is generally resistant to pests and diseases, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect Glaucium:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves of Glaucium, causing them to wilt and yellow.
- Slugs and Snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of Glaucium, leaving large holes in the foliage.
- Botrytis: This fungal disease can cause gray mold to form on the leaves and flowers of Glaucium, eventually causing them to die back.
Habitat
Glaucium is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found growing in rocky, coastal areas. It prefers well-drained, sandy soil and is often found growing in full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Glaucium deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Glaucium is generally considered deer-resistant.
Q: Can Glaucium be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Glaucium can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: What is the best time to plant Glaucium?
A: Glaucium should be planted in the spring or fall when the weather is mild.
Q: Can Glaucium be propagated from seed?
A: Yes, Glaucium can be propagated from seed sown in the spring.
Related Plants
- Eschscholzia californica (California poppy)
- Papaver orientale (Oriental poppy)
- Argemone mexicana (Mexican poppy)
References
- “Glaucium.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b677.
- “Glaucium.” Plant Delights Nursery, www.plantdelights.com/collections/glaucium.
- “Glaucium.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/23004/glaucium/details.
