Description This is an extremely prickly annual
or biennial, usually growing 1 1/2-2 ft., but sometimes reaching
5 ft. in height. Subtended by leaf-like, spiny bracts, the white
blooms are 4-6 in. across with fragile, crinkled petals and numerous
yellow or red stamens. White Prickly Poppy's blue-green leaves
are lobed, spiny, and covered with a whitish bloom.
Warning Seeds and other plant parts can be
toxic if ingested. Sensitivity to a toxin varies with a person's
age, weight, physical
condition, and individual susceptibility. Children are most vulnerable
because of their curiosity and small size. Toxicity can vary
in a plant according to season, the plant's different parts,
and its stage of growth; and plants can absorb toxic substances,
such as herbicides, pesticides, and pollutants from the water,
air, and soil.
Flower March - June.
Habitat Hills; pastures; disturbed areas.
Range Most of Texas into Oklahoma; naturalized elsewhere.
