Description:
Glaucium flavum, commonly known as Yellow horned-poppy, is a perennial plant with distinct characteristics. It features thick, leathery, bluish-grey leaves that are deeply segmented and wavy. Growing on branched, grey stems, it can reach heights of 30-90 cm. The plant blooms in summer, specifically between June and October, producing bright yellow or orange flowers that are approximately 7.5 cm across. Following the flowering stage, it forms a unique horn-shaped capsule, measuring 15-30 cm in length, which eventually splits open to reveal the seeds.
Distribution and Habitat
Glaucium flavum is native to Europe, Northern Africa, Macaronesia, and temperate zones in Western Asia. It is predominantly found in coastal habitats, including shingle banks, beaches, cliff tops, and sand dunes. While it thrives in its natural environment, the plant is also cultivated in gardens as a short-lived perennial, although it is more commonly grown as a biennial.
Toxicity
It is important to note that all parts of Glaucium flavum, including the seeds, are toxic. Ingesting the plant can result in a wide range of symptoms and even respiratory failure, which can be fatal.
Medicinal Uses
Glaucine, the main alkaloid component found in Glaucium flavum, possesses bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory properties. As a result, it is used medicinally as an antitussive, or cough suppressant, in certain countries. However, it is worth mentioning that the use of Glaucine may lead to side effects such as sedation, fatigue, and hallucinogenic effects characterized by colorful visual images.
Sources:
- “Glaucium flavum – Wikipedia.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 17 Jan. 2022, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glaucium_flavum.
- “Glaucium flavum, a True Perennial Poppy.” Garden Myths, 8 June 2020, https://www.gardenmyths.com/glaucium-flavum/.
- “Yellow horned-poppy | The Wildlife Trusts.” The Wildlife Trusts, https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife-explorer/wildflowers/yellow-horned-poppy.
FAQs
What are the physical characteristics of Glaucium flavum?
Glaucium flavum, also known as Yellow horned-poppy, is characterized by its thick, leathery, bluish-grey leaves that are deeply segmented and wavy. It grows on branched, grey stems, reaching heights of 30-90 cm. The plant produces bright yellow or orange flowers that are approximately 7.5 cm across during the summer months. It later forms a distinctive horn-shaped capsule, measuring 15-30 cm in length, which splits open to release its seeds.
Where is Glaucium flavum native to?
Glaucium flavum is native to Europe, Northern Africa, Macaronesia, and temperate zones in Western Asia.
What are the preferred habitats for Glaucium flavum?
Yellow horned-poppy is typically found in coastal habitats such as shingle banks, beaches, cliff tops, and sand dunes. These environments provide the ideal conditions for its growth and development.
Is Glaucium flavum toxic?
Yes, all parts of Glaucium flavum, including the seeds, are toxic. Ingesting the plant can result in a range of symptoms and can even lead to respiratory failure, which can be fatal.
What are the medicinal uses of Glaucium flavum?
Glaucium flavum contains an alkaloid compound called glaucine, which has bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory effects. As a result, it is used medicinally as an antitussive, or cough suppressant, in certain countries.
What are the potential side effects of using Glaucium flavum medicinally?
The use of Glaucium flavum for medicinal purposes may produce side effects, including sedation, fatigue, and hallucinogenic effects characterized by colorful visual images.
Can Glaucium flavum be grown in gardens?
Yes, Glaucium flavum can be cultivated in gardens. However, it is typically grown as a short-lived perennial or biennial plant.
When does Glaucium flavum bloom?
Glaucium flavum blooms in the summer, specifically between June and October, when it produces its vibrant yellow or orange flowers.