Yellow Horned Poppy
Glaucium flavum
Yellow Horned Poppy is a coastal perennial with handsome blue-gray foliage and bright golden-yellow poppy flowers followed by spectacular long curved seed pods up to 12 inches.
Papaveraceae (Poppy family)
Late spring through summer (June-September)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: sand verbenas and yellow sand verbenas also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Native to coastal regions from the Mediterranean to Britain, Yellow Horned Poppy has inspired poets including Robert Bridges and H.D. (Hilda Doolittle) who celebrated its beauty on windswept shores. Thomas Jefferson planted it at Monticello in 1807, and it naturalized along New England coasts as early as the 17th century. The extraordinary curved seed pods (6-12 inches long) are as ornamental as the flowers, giving the plant its "horned" name. The plant embodies the tenacity of coastal flora, thriving in harsh maritime conditions where few others survive.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun
Water
Low; highly drought-tolerant once established, prefers dry in summer
Soil
Sandy, Gravelly, Shingle, Poor, Very well-drained
Expert Growing Tips
Seeds require 3-4 week cold stratification at 35-40°F
Sow in winter or early spring
Surface sow or lightly cover with sand/grit
Resents root disturbance; difficult to transplant
Reseeds freely in good conditions
Excellent drainage absolutely essential
Thrives in poor, lean soils
Deer resistant
Virtually pest and disease-free
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Coastal and seaside gardens
- Xeriscaping and gravel gardens
- Rock gardens
- Mediterranean-style plantings
- Naturalized areas
- Architectural foliage interest
Traditional Uses
- Seed oil contains glaucine, an alkaloid used in cough medicines
- Glaucine has bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory effects
- Historically, seed oil was used to make soap and burned in lamps
- Caution: Glaucine can cause sedation and hallucinogenic effects; use only under medical supervision
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Yellow Horned Poppy
Why is it called horned poppy?
The name comes from the plant's distinctive long, curved seed pods that can reach 6-12 inches in length and resemble horns. These spectacular pods are as ornamental as the flowers.
Is yellow horned poppy invasive?
Yellow Horned Poppy is considered invasive in some areas like Massachusetts where it has naturalized. It reseeds freely in favorable conditions but is generally manageable in gardens.
Can you transplant yellow horned poppy?
No, Yellow Horned Poppy resents root disturbance and is very difficult to transplant successfully. It's best grown from seed sown directly where you want it to grow.
What are the medicinal uses of yellow horned poppy?
The seed oil contains glaucine, an alkaloid used in cough medicines for its bronchodilator properties. However, glaucine can have side effects and should only be used under medical supervision.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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