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Tree Poppy

Dendromecon rigida

shrub View on Calscape

Care

Sun

full sun

Water

very low

Soil

Fast; Well drained soils, typically on a slope. Tolerant of clay only if given no water after established. Tolerates serpentine soil..

Size

3–10ft tall , 2–8ft wide

Bloom

Jan-Dec

Foliage

Evergreen

Deer

Resistant

Container

Friendly

Flowers

Prized

Native Range

Chaparral endemic to central and southern California, particularly the Coast Ranges and Transverse Ranges from 500-3000 ft elevation.

Care Guide

Planting

Plant your Tree Poppy in full sun in very well-draining soil - this is non-negotiable. If you have clay soil, you can make it work, but only if you commit to zero supplemental water after the plant is established. Plant in fall or winter to take advantage of the rainy season for establishment, and space plants according to their mature size (3–10 feet tall). Avoid planting in shaded or poorly draining spots; this plant wants dry, rocky conditions.

After Planting

Water regularly during your first growing season to help the plant establish, then wean off to nearly nothing once it's settled in (by year 2, you're looking at maximum one irrigation per month in summer, and often zero). This is a fire-following plant that thrives on neglect, so your #1 mistake will be overwatering - resist the urge. Light pruning will keep it rounded and compact; prune after blooming ends (spring). Expect evergreen foliage and yellow flowers from winter into spring, and don't panic if growth slows dramatically once you stop watering - that's the plant working as designed.

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