Purple Poppy Mallow (Callirhoe involucrata)

Purple poppy mallow differs from the other Callirhoe species in that it stays short--a desirable trait for formal flower beds. Each stem will sprawl about 2 feet along the ground and produce many magenta, hibiscus-shaped flowers that contrast well with Missouri Primrose.

Uses: groundcover, bees, rock gardens, drought tolerant
Bloom time: June & July

Height: 6 - 9 inches
Space: 2 - 3 feet

Sun: Full sun
Moisture: Dry to average (needs well-drained soil)

Q: I live in Jefferson City Missouri. I'm considering this in a sunny sloped area of the yard, but what does it look like in winter? Does it reduce to root only to regrow every spring?

Asked by: Bonita - 7/10/2016

A: Purple poppy mallow does not make an evergreen groundcover.

The plant material is reduced to brown stems overwinter. The stems can be removed if you want to keep the area tidy, or left alone if you prefer. Removing the stems after the plant has finished flowering--but is still green--will prevent the plant from self-sowing. If you don't want the plant to spread, you should do this every year or be prepared to pull up quite a few seedlings.

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Answer provided by: Administrator (7/12/2016)

Q: I plan to plant seeds...should I plant under lights in February, and transplant in the spring, or direct seed in the spring? I'm in St. Charles County, MO. Thanks in advance!

Asked by: cfogy - 1/7/2018

A: Purple poppy mallow often germinates sporadically throughout the year. Two or three months of cold, moist stratification will encourage good germination in March or April. Mix the seeds with moistened potting soil or sand in a plastic sandwich bag sometime in January. Store the bagged mixture in the refrigerator until at least mid-February (we usually don't take the seed out until late March or April). If using grow lights and a seedling tray, sow the seed on the surface and sprinkle potting soil over the seeds just to the depth where you can't see the seeds any more. If sowing outdoors in their permanent location, scratch up the top half inch of soil with a rake and sow the seed.

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Answer provided by: Administrator (1/9/2018)