Also known as Mexican Poppy · Mexican Pricklypoppy · Mojave Pricklypoppy
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Mojave Prickly Poppy (Argemone corymbosa) is a striking desert native with large, papery white flowers and spiny foliage, thriving in arid conditions.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Drought Tolerant
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Sandy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm to Hot
75% intensity
Thrives in hot, dry climates. Tolerates frost.
Low Feed
0% intensity
Generally does not require fertilization; avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts contain alkaloids, can cause gastrointestinal upset, central nervous system effects, and irritation.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Mojave Prickly Poppy is drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, especially in containers.
Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy.
Pruning is typically minimal for Mojave Prickly Poppy. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased foliage as needed to maintain plant health and appearance.
Deadheading spent flowers can encourage further blooming and prevent unwanted seed dispersal.
Propagation is best achieved through seed. Sow seeds in early spring directly into the garden after the last frost, or start them indoors a few weeks prior. Scarification and stratification may improve germination rates.
Cuttings are generally not successful.
Repotting is rarely necessary as Mojave Prickly Poppy prefers to be undisturbed. If grown in a container and it becomes root-bound, repot in spring to a slightly larger pot with well-draining soil.
Avoid disturbing the root system excessively.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Mojave Prickly Poppy (Argemone corymbosa)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Papaveraceae |
| Genus | Argemone |
| Species | Argemone corymbosa |
Similar in genus Argemone
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
