Macro Flowers Saturday - The Matilija Poppy - July 2, 2011

I first met this incredible flower, the largest variety of poppy, from the family
Papaveraceae, just last year ( I am sixty-six ), much to my dismay.  The only two
species in the genus Romneya are perennial shrubs, native to northern Mexico and
California.  It is reputed to be difficult to grow but, once they establish themselves,
they are hard to remove.  I don't see why anyone would want to rid themselves of these
lovely beauties, which have been nicknamed the "fried egg flower"!

According to Wikipedia, Matilijas prefer warm sunny soil with good drainage.  Another
interesting tidbit is that, in the wild, they are often called "fire followers" as they often can
be found in burned areas.  What a beautiful blossom to give hope after devastation!

The San Francisco Botanical Garden has a wonderful section with these beautiful
flowers as does the Marin Art and Garden Center.

I am participating in Macro Pictures Saturday - check out the site and add your own flowers

to join in the fun!