How to identify Purple poppy mallow (Callirhoe involucrata)

How to identify Purple poppy mallow (Callirhoe involucrata)

Purple poppy mallow, also known as Finger poppy mallow, Buffalo rose, Prairie poppy mallow

Purple poppy mallow exhibits a low-growing habit, typically reaching heights of 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) while spreading to form expansive mats as wide as 3 feet (nearly 1 meter). This perennial presents a striking display with its deeply lobed leaves and vibrant cup-shaped flowers. The characteristic blooms possess a rich purple hue and a notable arrangement of surrounding bracts, known collectively as an involucre, lending to its unique identification amongst wildflowers.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Evergreen, Semi-evergreen

Quickly Identify Purple poppy mallow

Low-growing habit, spreading to form mats

Deeply lobed leaves; vibrant purple cup-shaped flowers

Distinctive reniform, flattened schizocarp fruit with short, hairy beaks

Orbicular leaves with palmate lobes and coarse teeth

Light green to reddish-purple angular stem with spreading white hairs

Detailed Traits of Purple poppy mallow

Leaf Features

The leaves of purple poppy mallow are generally orbicular, measuring about 4 × 4 inches (10 × 10 cm). They are palmately divided into 5-7 lobes, each coarsely toothed. The lobes radiate from a central point, giving the leaf a distinct fan-like appearance. The texture is generally rough with visible veins extending towards the edges. These leaves are an essential feature for identifying purple poppy mallow, distinguishable by their rounded shape and deeply lobed, toothed margins.

Leaf Arrangement

Alternate

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Flower Features

Purple poppy mallow features individual cup-shaped, showy magenta flowers that are 1.5-2.5 inches (3.8-6.4 cm) across. Each flower boasts a prominent stamen and five broad petals, often white near the base, creating a striking contrast. These vibrant blossoms appear in late spring and continue to bloom throughout the summer. The flowers' unique shape and color make them a standout, easy to identify in any garden.

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Stem Features

The stem of purple poppy mallow is light green to dull reddish-purple and angular. It is adorned with spreading white hairs, providing a distinctive texture. The stem is relatively slender, usually about 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) in thickness. It demonstrates a branching pattern that is somewhat sparse and elongated, often growing in a prostrate manner. The unique coloration and hairy texture serve as key identification features for this plant.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of purple poppy mallow is a distinctive schizocarp, notable for its ring-like cluster formation. Each fruit is reniform, resembling the shape of a kidney, and they are flattened in appearance, enhancing their unique profile. The surface bears short, hairy beaks that add a tactile dimension to its texture. Enclosed within each fruit is a solitary seed, a key point in distinguishing this species. While mature fruit coloration is not specified, the textural elements and shape are important identifiers for enthusiasts.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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