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Description
Mariosousa Coulteri, also known as Coulter’s Matilija Poppy or Fried-Egg Plant, is an herbaceous perennial plant native to southern California and northern Mexico. It is a member of the Papaveraceae family and is known for its large, showy flowers that resemble fried eggs. It is a popular garden plant due to its striking appearance and easy care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Papaveraceae |
| Genus | Mariosousa |
Appearance
Mariosousa Coulteri can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide, making it an impressive addition to any garden. It has large, deeply lobed leaves that are grey-green in color and can grow up to 12 inches long. The flowers, which bloom in late spring and early summer, are the plant’s most striking feature. They are up to 9 inches wide with white petals and a yellow center, giving them the appearance of fried eggs. The flowers have a pleasant fragrance and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Mariosousa Coulteri is an easy plant to care for, making it a popular choice for gardeners. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil and should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering in the winter.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in mid-summer.- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Mariosousa Coulteri is hardy in zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mariosousa Coulteri is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions. To prevent this, ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering. Spider mites and aphids can also be a problem but can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Mariosousa Coulteri is native to southern California and northern Mexico, where it grows in dry, rocky soils in full sun. It is often found growing in the wild along roadsides and in open areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Mariosousa Coulteri deer-resistant?A: Yes, Mariosousa Coulteri is deer-resistant.Q: How often should I fertilize Mariosousa Coulteri?A: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in mid-summer.Q: Can Mariosousa Coulteri grow in containers?A: Yes, Mariosousa Coulteri can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and the soil is well-draining.Q: How do I propagate Mariosousa Coulteri?A: Mariosousa Coulteri can be propagated by division or by taking stem cuttings in the spring.
Related Plants
– Papaver somniferum- Eschscholzia californica- Papaver nudicaule- Papaver orientale
References
– “Mariosousa coulteri.” Plant Database, Dave’s Garden, davesgarden.com. – “Coulter’s Matilija Poppy.” San Marcos Growers, smgrowers.com. – “Fried Egg Plant.” Waterwise Botanicals, waterwisebotanicals.com.
