Romneya coulteri

Romneya coulteri
Originally uploaded by gardenmania.

Thanks to the hubby for this gorgeous close-up of a Matilija Poppy flower. The petals resemble crepe paper and the large, puffy, yellow center invokes the image of a fried egg. These bold, profuse plants can be seen on the hillside as you enter Griffith Park through the top of Commonwealth Avenue in Los Feliz. They're on their way out so go see them soon. If you desire to put Matilija Poppies in your garden, be sure you have the room for them and the stamina to pull up unwanted shoots. They spread via rhizomes and can be a little unruly. They're impressively tall, so put them toward the back of a group of shorter plants.