Purple Poppy Mallow - Callirhoe involucrata
 
 
Purple Poppy Mallow (Callirhoe involucrata), also known as Winecup, is a charming perennial wildflower known for its deep magenta to purple, cup-shaped flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. This low-growing plant forms a sprawling mat that can reach up to 6 to 12 inches in height and spread 2 to 3 feet wide. Its lobed leaves are bright green and finely divided, adding a delicate texture to the garden.
Native to prairies, open woodlands, and rocky slopes of the central United States, Purple Poppy Mallow thrives in well-drained soils and full sun. It is highly adaptable to poor, sandy, or rocky soils and is drought-tolerant once established, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens.
Ecologically, Purple Poppy Mallow is a valuable nectar source for various pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The vibrant flowers attract numerous species of butterflies, such as the Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui) and the Gray Hairstreak (Strymon melinus), which feed on its nectar.
In landscaping, Purple Poppy Mallow is ideal for rock gardens, borders, and wildflower meadows. Its spreading habit makes it effective as a ground cover, and it can also cascade beautifully over walls or the edges of containers. The striking purple flowers provide a vivid splash of color and are particularly effective when planted in mass groupings.
Care for Purple Poppy Mallow is straightforward. It requires minimal watering once established and benefits from occasional deadheading to encourage continuous blooming. Pruning back the stems in late fall or early spring helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth. Propagation is typically done by seed or division of established plants.