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Macleaya microcarpa 'Kelway's Coral Plume'
plume poppy
Hazy plumes of tiny, coral-pink or taupe flowers appear in June and July on stiff, towering stems, above unusual, scalloped, glaucous...
2 litre pot
available to order from summer
3 × 2 litre pots
available to order from summer
1
Delivery options
Wonderful naturalised with tall grasses in the prairie or wildflower garden; a showy plant with Verbena bonariensis and tall poppies
Plant description
Hazy plumes of tiny, coral-pink or taupe flowers appear in June and July on stiff, towering stems, above unusual, scalloped, glaucous leaves. Unlike other flowering perennials of similar height, this handsome plume poppy seldom needs staking. Planted in bold swathes, it makes a lovely centrepiece for a large, sunny, moist but well-drained border, sheltered from cold, drying winds, and it looks wonderful with ornmanental grasses.
Eventual height & spread
Flowering period
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Plant features
Position
Full sun
Rate of growth
Average
Soil
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness
Fully hardy
How to care for Macleaya microcarpa Kelway's Coral Plume:
Plant in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or light shade, giving plenty of space as this is a vigorous, spreading perennial. It thrives in moisture-retentive soil but dislikes waterlogging. Water regularly while establishing, then only in prolonged dry spells.
Cut stems down to ground level in autumn after the foliage dies back, or in early spring before new growth appears. Lift and divide large clumps in late autumn or spring to control spread and maintain vigour. Apply a 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted compost in spring to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid planting too close to smaller or delicate plants, as it can spread rapidly by rhizomes.
Cut stems down to ground level in autumn after the foliage dies back, or in early spring before new growth appears. Lift and divide large clumps in late autumn or spring to control spread and maintain vigour. Apply a 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted compost in spring to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid planting too close to smaller or delicate plants, as it can spread rapidly by rhizomes.
Please note:
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
