Dendromecon rigida

Common Names: Island Tree Poppy

syn. Dendromecon rigida subsp. harfordii

Family: Papaveraceae

Origin: California

Type: Evergreen shrub

Size: 6 to 18 ft. high and wide.

Flowers: Flowers 2-3 in. wide, bright sulfur yellow, spring to summer and some rest of year; leaves deep blue-green, 3-5 in. long.

Uses: Slopes, roadsides, color accent, background, screen. Tolerates salt spray, wind, heat. Fire resistive.

Wildlife: Provides habitat. Deer resistant.

Soil: Must be well-drained; prefers sandy soil. Plant in raised container or on slope in heavier soil.

Water: None once established.

Sun: Full sun.

Pruning: Very lightly thin and/or shape after bloom to keep neat. Does not respond well to severe pruning.

Pests & Diseases: (None found.)

Notes: Native to Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa islands off coast as well as Baja California. Part of chaparral plant community on slopes, bluffs, and canyons. Propagates by slow-germinating seeds. Hardy to 10° F.