Poppy mallow, Buffalo rose
Callirhoe involucrata
Family: Malvaceae
What it is like
A low growing sprawling plant. It keeps growing from year to year. It grows 15-30 cm high and spreads 30-60 cm wide. The root is large and tapers. The stems lie along the ground. They are hairy and 15 cm long. The leaves have 3 to 7 lobes. The leaves are 2.5-5 cm long. The flowers are red or purple. They are on long erect stems.
There are 9 Callirhoe species.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It grows on mountain slopes and in warm dry areas. It is resistant to drought. It will grow in a range of soils. It suits hardiness zones 5-8.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Europe, France, Mexico, North America, Tasmania, USA
How it is used for food
The root is cooked and eaten. It can also be fried. It can be dried and ground into flour. This can be used to thicken soups and casseroles. The leaves are used to thicken soup.
Edible parts
Leaves, root
How it is grown
Plants can be grown by seeds or division of the root.
Its other names
Local names
Low poppy mallow, Prairie poppy mallow, Purple poppy mallow, Wine cups