Contents
Description
Macleaya Cordata, also known as plume poppy or plume celadine, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Papaveraceae family. The plant is native to China, Japan, and Korea, and is widely used in ornamental gardening due to its beautiful plume-like flowers and foliage. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide, and blooms in the summer with showy, creamy white flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukarya||————|————|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Spermatophyta || Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Ranunculales || Family| Papaveraceae || Genus| Macleaya|| Species| Cordata|
Appearance
Macleaya Cordata has large, lobed leaves that are blue-green in color and have a powdery texture. The plant’s flowers are borne on tall, upright stems and are creamy white in color, with yellow centers. The flowers are followed by attractive seed pods that have a silvery green color and a rounded shape. The plant’s foliage turns golden yellow in the fall, adding to its ornamental value.
Care Guide
Macleaya Cordata is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. The plant is drought-tolerant once established and does not require frequent watering. Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Macleaya Cordata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant well-watered and avoid overcrowding. In case of an infestation, treat with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
Macleaya Cordata is native to China, Japan, and Korea, where it grows in open woodlands, meadows, and along streams. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil but can tolerate a wide range of soil types. It is often used in ornamental gardening in North America and Europe.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Macleaya Cordata a good plant for beginner gardeners?
A: Yes, Macleaya Cordata is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow and care for.
Q: Does Macleaya Cordata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s showy flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Macleaya Cordata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s size and the soil is well-drained.
Q: How often should Macleaya Cordata be pruned?
A: The plant does not require regular pruning. However, you can remove spent flowers and dead stems to improve the plant’s appearance.
Related Plants
– Papaver Somniferum- Eschscholzia Californica- Argemone Mexicana
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Macleaya cordata. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c318- NC State Extension. (n.d.). Macleaya cordata. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/macleaya-cordata/
