Plume poppy 'Kelway's Coral Plume' Macleaya microcarpa 'Kelway's Coral Plume'

Water

Plume Poppy should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During active growth in the spring and summer, watering once a week with approximately 1-2 gallons of water per plant should suffice, depending on the climate and soil conditions. In the fall and winter, reduce watering to every other week or less, depending on rainfall and temperature. Always check the soil moisture at a depth of about 2 inches to determine if additional water is needed. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so err on the side of underwatering rather than giving too much.

Light

Plume Poppy thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. A spot that provides at least six hours of direct sunlight is best to ensure healthy growth and optimal blooming. However, in very hot climates, some afternoon shade can help prevent scorching of the leaves. Avoid deeply shaded areas, as this can lead to leggy growth and fewer blooms.

Temperature

Plume Poppy prefers to grow in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F, which are ideal for robust growth. It can withstand a minimum temperature down to about 20°F, making it suitable for growth in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 8. It is important to protect the plant from extreme temperatures, both high and low, to prevent stress and potential damage.

Pruning

Plume Poppy should be pruned to remove spent flowers and encourage new growth, as well as to maintain the desired shape and size. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Remove any dead or damaged stems, and cut back up to one-third of the total plant to promote vigorous, healthy growth for the coming season. Pruning can also help control the spread of this plant, as it can be invasive.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Plume Poppy thrives in well-draining, fertile loam with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of garden soil, compost, and perlite or sand will provide the necessary structure and nutrients.

Repotting

Plume Poppy typically does not require frequent repotting as it is a robust perennial, but if needed, every 3-4 years or when it outgrows its space.

Humidity & Misting

Plume Poppy prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable to different humidity conditions, making it suitable for most garden settings.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light and ample space for Plume Poppy's tall growth.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun to partial shade in well-drained soil.

Life cycle

The Macleaya microcarpa 'Kelway's Coral Plume', commonly known as Plume Poppy, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in spring after a period of cold stratification, which breaks seed dormancy. The seedlings develop into robust plants with a clump-forming habit, showcasing large, deeply lobed leaves. Throughout the growing season, the Plume Poppy undergoes vegetative growth, expanding both its root system and foliage to absorb sunlight and nutrients. By mid to late summer, the plant reaches maturity and produces tall, arching stems topped with feathery plumes of tiny, creamy white to pale pink flowers that are attractive to pollinators. After flowering, the Plume Poppy sets seed, which are dispersed by wind and gravity, allowing for self-sowing and propagation of new plants. As winter approaches, the above-ground parts of the plant die back, with the root system remaining dormant until the next growing season begins.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: Macleaya microcarpa 'Kelway's Coral Plume', commonly known as Plume Poppy, is typically propagated by division. The best time to propagate by division is in the spring, as the plant emerges from dormancy and the new growth is just starting to show. To propagate Plume Poppy, carefully dig up an established clump and gently separate it into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system. These divisions can then be replanted in a well-draining soil mixture, spacing them about 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 centimeters) apart to allow for their mature size. Water the new divisions well to help establish them. Division is a simple and effective method to create new plants that will be genetically identical to the parent and will typically flower in the same year if done early in the spring.