Poached egg plant - Limnanthes douglasii (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Poached egg plant

Also known as: Meadow foam

The yellow and white flowers of poached egg plant (Limnanthes douglasii) remind many people of poached eggs—hence the name. It’s indigenous to the west coast of the United States. David Douglas, a Scottish botanist, first discovered the flower when he visited America to collect specimens for British Gardens. The specific epithet of “douglasii” honors him.

Scientific classification

Species

Poached egg plant (Limnanthes douglasii)

Mustards, capers, and allies

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Annual, Biennial, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

3 cm to 1 m

Plant Height

15 cm to 30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, White

Flower Color

Images of Poached egg plant

Distribution of Poached egg plant

Distribution Map

Poached egg plant is native to western North America, specifically within the Pacific Coast region. Its cultivation extends its range, and it has been introduced to parts of Europe. The plant thrives in both its natural habitat and gardens, showcasing its adaptability beyond its original range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Wet meadows and seeps

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Poached egg plant

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Poached egg plant thrives in moist environments and prefers consistent humidity, requiring weekly watering for optimal health. As an annual herbaceous plant, it grows rapidly during the rainy season, necessitating adjustments to its watering schedule.

Fertilize: For poached egg plant, apply high-phosphorus fertilizers monthly during the growing season (spring to summer) at a quarter-strength to promote blooms and root growth. Avoid over-fertilization, adjust based on poached egg plant's response, and reduce frequency during dormancy for optimal health and flowering.

Pruning: Poached egg plant thrives with early to late spring pruning, promoting bushy growth and extended blooming. Regular deadheading encourages new flowers. A one-third height reduction enhances foliage without heavy pruning after mid-summer, maintaining health and neatness while preventing legginess.

Propagation: Poached egg plant is propagated by direct sowing of seeds in well-drained, fertile soil, ideally loamy. Sprinkle seeds on the surface, press gently without covering, and maintain moisture until germination, typically within two weeks. Thin seedlings to avoid overcrowding for optimal growth.

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Images of Poached egg plant

Distribution of Poached egg plant

Care Guide for Poached egg plant

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