Horned Poppy
glaucium corniculatum
Also known as: ["Orange Horned Poppy","Copper Poppy"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with striking orange-red flowers and bluish-gray foliage, native to coastal regions of Europe and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Papaverales |
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Genus: | Glaucium |
| Botanical Name: | Glaucium corniculatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden or sunny border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; ensure adequate ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of cactus soil and regular potting soil; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection; move indoors in freezing conditions; ensure good air circulation.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or wilt; growth may slow in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the alkaloids in Glaucium corniculatum. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal upset and neurological symptoms, potentially leading to serious health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe alkaloids present in Glaucium corniculatum are harmful to dogs, causing severe gastrointestinal distress and potential neurological effects. The toxins can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicGlaucium corniculatum contains alkaloids that can cause significant physiological disturbances upon ingestion. The toxins interfere with the nervous system and can lead to severe gastrointestinal and cardiovascular effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Glaucium corniculatum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought tolerant and overwatering can lead to root rot.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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