White Prickly Poppy, Bluestem pricklypoppy

Argemone albiflora

Physical Characteristics

Argemone albiflora is a ANNUAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from May to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Southern N. America - Connecticut to Florida and west to Texas and Illinois.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Demulcent Emetic Purgative Skin A tea made from the leaves is demulcent, emetic and purgative[222]. Caution is advised, the seed oil can cause glaucoma and oedema[222]. An infusion of the plant is used in the treatment of jaundice, skin ailments, colds, colic and wounds[222].

Known Hazards

All parts of the plant, including the seed, contain toxic alkaloids[222].