Yellow horned poppy - Glaucium flavum (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Yellow horned poppy

Also known as: Beach poppy, Yellow hornpoppy

Yellow horned poppy (Glaucium flavum) is a perennial wildflower that will grow from 30 to 61 cm tall. In mid-spring to early summer, it blooms bright golden-yellow flowers that are 5 cm wide. Prefers full sun and can tolerate drought and seaside locations. Often found growing among sand dunes on beaches. The seeds have been used to make soap.

Scientific classification

Species

Yellow horned poppy (Glaucium flavum)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

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Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial, Biennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

90 cm

Plant Height

60 cm

Spread

Green, Blue, Gray

Leaf Color

5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Orange

Flower Color

Images of Yellow horned poppy

Distribution of Yellow horned poppy

Distribution Map

Yellow horned poppy is native to coastal regions of the Mediterranean and Western Europe and has been introduced to both North and South America, as well as Australasia. While occurring naturally in its native range, yellow horned poppy has been cultivated beyond these bounds, demonstrating its broader adaptability to various environments.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Shingle banks by the coast

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Weed Control

Yellow horned poppy is native to Europe, northern Africa, and western Asia and is considered endangered throughout some of its native range. It is commonly planted as an ornamental. It has been introduced to North America, where it is considered invasive in the state of Massachusetts. Its root is poisonous when ingested. Its seeds float, which can allow it to spread quickly along waterways. It is not tolerant of shade, so planting competitive species or mulching may be effective. Yellow horned poppy also does not respond well to root disturbance, so hand pulling and tilling may be effective means of controlling weedy populations.

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Quickly Identify Yellow horned poppy

Mounded rosettes of fuzzy gray-green leaves with wavy edges, up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall.

Vivid golden-yellow flowers with orange stamens and four silky petals, each around 1 inch (2.5 cm) long.

Unusually long, narrow seed pods with thorn-like protrusions, over 6 inches (15 cm) in length.

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Care Guide for Yellow horned poppy

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Yellow horned poppy thrives in coastal regions, favoring sandy, saline soils. It demands minimal watering once every 1-2 weeks and prefers well-draining soil to avoid root rot. Ideal for xeriscaping or coastal gardens, yellow horned poppy is drought-tolerant and suited to tidal environments.

Fertilize: For yellow horned poppy, use balanced fertilizers to promote growth and flowering, applying half-strength liquid bimonthly during spring and summer. Reduce usage in fall and pause in winter. Apply at the base, avoiding foliage contact, and adjust based on plant response.

Propagation: The coastal perennial yellow horned poppy thrives in sandy soils and propagates best by sowing seeds in a well-draining substrate. Seeds require moisture and may be dormant before germinating. Handle seedlings carefully and provide adequate spacing for growth to ensure successful establishment in suitable habitats.

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