Crested pricklypoppy (Argemone polyanthemos, Mem. Torrey Bot. Club 21:128. 1958)

Family: Papaveraceae

Author: G.B.Ownbey (Fedde)

Bibliography: Mem. Torrey Bot. Club 21:128. 1958

Year: 1958

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Argemone

Vegetable: False

Observations: WC. & C. U.S.A.

Description

The Crested pricklypoppy, scientifically known as Argemone polyanthemos, is a captivating member of the Papaveraceae family, cherished for its distinctive and ornamental flowering features. This species, intricately described in the Mem. Torrey Bot. Club (1958) by G.B. Ownbey, is a staple within the diverse flora of the west-central and central regions of the United States.

The Crested pricklypoppy is easily recognizable by its striking, large white flowers which often exhibit crested forms. These blooms stand out dramatically against the plant’s spiky, green foliage, creating a stark yet beautiful contrast that is both ornamental and interesting from a botanical perspective. The spines and prickles on the plant are a typical defense mechanism against herbivores, a common trait found within its family.

This species thrives in a variety of environments, showcasing its versatility and adaptability. It can often be found in open fields, along roadsides, and in other disturbed areas, displaying a knack for resilience in tougher conditions where other plant species might struggle. The Crested pricklypoppy’s ability to prosper in such environments illustrates its robust nature.

The deep taproot of Argemone polyanthemos allows it to access water from deeper soil layers, making it relatively drought-tolerant. This functional adaptation not only aids in its survival during periods of limited precipitation but also means it plays a role in preventing soil erosion in its native habitats.

Being a member of the Papaveraceae family, this plant shares lineage with other poppies, contributing to the family’s reputation for producing substance-rich and pharmacologically significant plants. While the Crested pricklypoppy itself may not hold major pharmaceutical value, its familial connections endow it with an intrinsic botanical significance.

Observing Argemone polyanthemos in its natural habitat provides insight into the ecological dynamics of its native regions. It forms a part of the intricate web of flora that supports local wildlife, providing nectar for pollinators and serving as a minor food source for certain animals adept at navigating its prickly defenses.

Overall, the Crested pricklypoppy is a plant of notable interest, both for its striking appearance and its ecological tenacity. Whether appreciated in wild landscapes or studied for its botanical characteristics, Argemone polyanthemos remains a fascinating specimen within the diverse world of flowering plants.

Common Names

Eng: annual pricklypoppy, bluestem prickly poppy, crested pricklypoppy, plains prickly-poppy, pricklypoppy, thistle poppy, white prickly poppy
Swe: vit taggvallmo
En: Crested pricklypoppy, Annual pricklypoppy, Bluestem prickly poppy, Plains prickly-poppy, Pricklypoppy, Thistle poppy, White prickly poppy
Ar: أرجمون كثير الأزهار
Fi: Valkopiikkiunikko
Sv: Vit taggvallmo

Synonyms

• Argemone mexicana var. albiflora (A.Gray)
• Argemone intermedia var. polyanthemos (Fedde)
• Argemone polyanthemos f. rosea (Waterf.)

Distribution

• Colorado (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• North Dakota (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Texas (native)
• Wyoming (native)
• Illinois (introduced)
• Utah (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Aug 23, 2022 by Anatas (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 23, 2022 by Anatas (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 23, 2022 by Anatas (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Aug 23, 2022 by Anatas (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 23, 2022 by Anatas (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Aug 23, 2022 by Anatas (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Aug 23, 2022 by Anatas (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2888477)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:18861-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Argemone polyanthemos (Fedde) Ownbey)

Specifications

Growth form>: Single Stem

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth rate>: Rapid

Growth

Ph maximum: 8.5

Ph minimum: 7.0