Matilija poppy is queen of California flowers

Matilija poppy has been called the "Queen of California flowers" in the words of Mary Parsons in her book "The Wildflowers of California," 1897.

It seems more appropriate for this beautiful California native in lieu of the "Fried Egg Plant," a name which I never thought this elegant and stately plant deserved.

Botanically speaking, it is a Romney coulteri, and Matilija is pronounced "ma-til-li-ha." It is one of most recognized of California flowering native plants.

With some basic understanding and horticultural care, the plant can really be marvelous in a landscape if you have space. It is a...