Argemone polyanthemos (Prickly Poppy)

Argemone polyanthemos, commonly known as Prickly Poppy, is a striking perennial or biennial wildflower native to North America. It features large, showy, white, cup-shaped flowers with crinkled petals and a vibrant yellow center, blooming above bluish-green, deeply lobed, spiny foliage. Its bold and unique appearance makes it an eye-catching addition to wildflower meadows, xeriscaped gardens, or naturalized areas.

Argemone polyanthemos thrives in well-drained, sandy, or rocky soils and is highly drought-tolerant, making it ideal for arid and low-maintenance gardens. It requires minimal care; its taproot ensures resilience in dry conditions. Deadheading spent blooms can help control self-seeding, as the plant readily reseeds. It pairs beautifully with other drought-tolerant plants like echinacea, blanket flowers, or grasses for a naturalistic garden setting. The flowers attract bees and other pollinators, while its spiny foliage deters deer and rabbits. With its dramatic flowers, tolerance for poor soils, and adaptability to dry environments, Prickly Poppy is a striking choice for wildflower gardens, prairie plantings, or desert landscapes.

Sun Requirements:

Full sun. Requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.

Maximum Growth Height:

24–36 inches (60–90 cm), with a spread of about 12–18 inches (30–45 cm).

Bloom Month:

May to July. Providing a stunning display of flowers in late spring through midsummer.