Chicalote - Argemone munita (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Chicalote

Chicalote (Argemone munita) is a perennial wildflower that will grow to 91 cm tall. The name Argemone munita means armed which is indicative of its prickly spikes. Foliage is a mint green color. It blooms in summer with delicate white flowers with an array of bright yellow stamen.

Scientific classification

Species

Chicalote (Argemone munita)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Winter

Bloom Time

51 cm to 86 cm

Plant Height

60 cm

Spread

5 cm to 10 cm

Flower Size

White

Flower Color

Images of Chicalote

Culture

Symbolism

Fertility, Love Sleep

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Toxicity

Chicalote is poisonous if ingested. The entire plant, especially the seeds, contains toxic alkaloids. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, skin capillary dilation, and eye damage. Children are more susceptible due to its common presence in gardens.

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Weed Control

This prickly poppy species is native to California and also appears in Arizona and Nevada. Chicalote is widespread in desert habitats and is also commonly found along roadsides. Despite this, it is not featured on any noxious weeds list, but it is simply a part of the native Baja California wild flora. Chicalote leaves and seeds contain alkaloids that make the plant somewhat toxic; however, it is not commonly eaten, and there are no reports of poisonings. The entire plant is covered with bristles and spines, so care should be taken when walking through areas where chicalote grows densely to avoid getting scratched.

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Care Guide for Chicalote

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from arid regions, chicalote exhibits high drought tolerance and conservative water habits, requiring weekly watering. Thriving in full sun, its growth cycle aligns with water availability, often blooming vigorously following rare rainfalls.

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Images of Chicalote

Culture

Toxicity

Weed Control

Care Guide for Chicalote

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