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perennial
Matilija Poppy
Romneya coulteri
California's most spectacular native perennial, with enormous white fried-egg flowers up to 9 inches across with golden centers. Spreads by underground runners. Extremely drought tolerant once established.
USDA Zones
7–10
Height
4 ft–8 ft at maturity
Bloom Season
May – July
Bloom Color
white
Wildlife🦌 Deer Resistant🐾 Groundhog Resistant
Pet Safe†🐕 Dog-Friendly🐈 Cat-Friendly
Garden🌿 Native to US🐝 Attracts Pollinators
† "Dog-Friendly" / "Cat-Friendly" means this plant is not listed as toxic by common horticultural references. It is not a guarantee of safety for all animals in all circumstances. If your pet ingests any plant, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435.
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Sun Requirements
Full Sun
6+ hours of direct sunlight daily
Soil Type
well-drained, rocky, sandy
Care Requirements
Water Needslow
Maintenancelow
EvergreenNo
Complete Care Guide
# Matilija Poppy Care Guide
Matilija Poppy is the queen of California native plants — enormous white flowers up to 9 inches across with golden centers bloom in late spring and early summer. It is extremely drought tolerant and spreads by underground runners.
## Planting
Plant in fall in full sun with excellent drainage. Avoid clay soils or summer irrigation. Give it plenty of space — it spreads aggressively.
## Watering
Water deeply every 2–3 weeks for the first summer. Once established, do not water in summer.
## Pruning
Cut back to the ground in late summer or fall after blooming. It will return vigorously in spring.
## Spreading
Matilija Poppy spreads by underground runners. Use root barriers if you need to contain it.