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Description
Romneya, commonly known as Matilija poppy or fried egg plant, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Papaveraceae family. It is native to Southern California and Mexico and is widely grown as an ornamental plant for its large, showy flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Papaveraceae |
| Genus | Romneya |
Appearance
Romneya has large, coarse, gray-green leaves that are deeply lobed and covered in fine hairs. The plant can grow up to 8 feet tall and 6 feet wide. Its flowers are the most distinctive feature of the plant, with large, white petals and a yellow center that resembles a fried egg. The flowers can grow up to 9 inches in diameter and bloom from late spring to early summer.
Care Guide
Romneya is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and full sun exposure. The plant is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, only once or twice a month in the summer. Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Romneya is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Romneya is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be prone to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and rust, which can be treated with fungicides.
Habitat
Romneya is native to Southern California and Mexico and can be found growing in dry, rocky areas and along stream banks. The plant is well-adapted to hot, dry climates and can thrive in poor, sandy soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Romneya be grown in containers?
A: Romneya is not an ideal plant for container gardening, as it requires a lot of space to grow and can become too large for most containers.
Q: How often should I fertilize Romneya?
A: Romneya should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Romneya attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Romneya is a pollinator-friendly plant that attracts bees and butterflies with its large, showy flowers.
Q: Can Romneya tolerate frost?
A: No, Romneya is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Related Plants
- Eschscholzia californica (California poppy)
- Argemone mexicana (Mexican prickly poppy)
- Papaver orientale (Oriental poppy)
References
- “Romneya coulteri.” Plant of the Week. University of Arizona Cooperative Extension.
- “Romneya.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Matilija Poppy.” Las Pilitas Nursery.
