I have harped on the desirability of Hunnemannia fumuriaefolia before, but this Mexican tulip poppy is still too seldom seen in Southland gardens. Full sun and good drainage are imperative to the comfort of this delightful wild flower from Mexico, where it receives good rains during its growing season and the early part of its blooming period and drought during its time of rest.
When established, the tulip poppy, like the bright horned poppy (glaucium) from Europe, which requires much the same treatment and makes a good companion plant, is self-perpetuating. This is fortunate, for neither of these poppies are easy to transplant after they are a few inches tall. Now is the time to sow the seed, which, when fresh, germinates quickly. The 2-foot plant is a handsome one with beautifully cut gray foliage and large flower-bowls of light buttercup yellow which are excellent for cutting. The selected form called Sunlite equals the best that can be found in Mexico.
by R Lester – 62840
