Argemone mexicana is a hardy annual plant in Papaveraceae family native to Mexico, characterized by prickly stems and bright yellow poppy-like flowers. Seeds contain high levels of dormancy with underdeveloped embryos
Before sowing
Seeds exhibit underdeveloped embryos with high dormancy; mechanical scarification minimally effective; complete germination achieved only after gibberellic acid or partial seed coat/endosperm removal
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Direct sow in situ after last frost or indoors 5-7 weeks before transplant. Plant resents transplanting due to deep taproot. Requires light to germinate; do not cover seeds. Keep soil lightly moist. Prefers full sun and poor well-drained sandy soils
Sources: Thompson and Morgan (1988) Growing from Seed; PFAF Plant Database; Sheffield Seed Company; Research studies on Argemone dormancy (2004)
