Discover the breathtaking beauty of Romneya coulteri, also known as California Tree Poppy or Coulter's Matilija Poppy, a remarkable shrub-like perennial that transforms landscapes with its dramatic presence. This vibrant California native is renowned for its exquisite flowers, each boasting crinkled, pure white petals akin to delicate crepe paper, encircling a stunning cluster of golden stamens. These spectacular blooms, measuring an impressive 9 inches across, fill the air with an enticing apricot fragrance, typically adorning gardens from late spring through early summer, with the potential to extend into late summer if nourished with water.
Standing 6-8 feet tall and spreading equally wide, Romneya coulteri thrives in well-drained soils under the embrace of full sun or soft, dappled light. Its adaptability to drought conditions and deer resistance make it an ideal choice for various garden settings, whether cottage, Mediterranean, or dry edge gardens. Perfect for stabilizing banks and slopes, it requires space due to its expansive growth habit fueled by underground rhizomes.