Channel Islands Tree Poppy (Dendromecon harfordii)

Channel Islands Tree Poppy

Dendromecon harfordii

Its bright yellow blooms glow like desert sunshine. Evergreen shrub; common name: Channel Islands Tree Poppy.

Full sun
1/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates coastal wind and drought conditions
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Watering Drought-tolerant once established; water deeply but infrequently to avoid root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -5°C; tolerates hot, dry summer temperatures up to 35°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, leathery, gray-green leaves, 5–10 cm long, with smooth margins
  • Flower: Showy, 5-petaled bright yellow flowers, 5–8 cm in diameter, with prominent golden stamens
  • Stem: Woody, gray-brown stems with peeling bark over time
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Care Guide

Watering

Water deeply every 1–2 weeks; allow soil to dry completely between waterings

Fertilization

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once at the start of growth. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering

Eggshell powder topdress:Sprinkle finely ground, dried eggshells around the base of the shrub; work lightly into the top 2 cm of soil to boost calcium levels and improve soil structure
Pruning
  • Remove spent flower stems immediately after blooming to encourage potential reblooming
  • Thin overcrowded branches in late winter to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
  • Trim back leggy growth in early spring to maintain a compact, rounded shape
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden shrub; coastal landscaping for drought-tolerant gardens