Overview
Macleaya microcarpa 'Coral Plume' is a herbaceous perennial in the genus Macleaya, part of the Q144723 family. It typically grows around 2 metres tall. Macleaya microcarpa 'Coral Plume' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5.
About
Macleaya microcarpa 'Coral Plume' is a herbaceous perennial that reaches about 2 metres and is grown for its tall summer flowering stems. It blooms from July to September. It suits full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. It is rated H5, so is hardy in most UK gardens; allow space for its height when siting it at the back of a border.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Macleaya microcarpa
About the genus
Macleaya, or plume poppy, is a genus of two or three species of flowering plants in the poppy family Papaveraceae, native to Japan and China. They are large rhizomatous herbaceous perennials with palmately lobed, frilly leaves of olive green or grey colour, 25 cm (10 in) long, and tall stems with airy plumes of petal-less, tubular, off-white or cream flowers.
Wikipedia contributors, "Macleaya", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Macleaya
In the garden
Macleaya microcarpa 'Coral Plume' is a sizeable herbaceous perennial that produces erect stems up to about 2 metres. Flowering occurs from July to September, when the plant carries its summer blooms well above the leaves. Growers value it where vertical presence is needed rather than for compact planting. Plant it in full sun or partial shade on soil that stays moist but drains freely; water to keep the rootzone evenly moist while avoiding waterlogging. The plant is classed H5, which means it is hardy across most of the UK and will survive typical winter conditions in outdoor beds. Choose a site with enough clearance so the stems can develop without being crowded by lower neighbours. Positioned at the rear of a mixed border, in a large perennial bed or beside taller ornamental grasses, it provides height and seasonal flowers from midsummer into early autumn. Maintenance is largely limited to giving it room and ensuring consistent moisture; the plant's 2-metre habit is the primary consideration when planning where to place it. Expect its flowering display between July and September, when the tall stems present the summer blooms.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Macleaya
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained
- Soil moisture
- moist
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Macleaya microcarpa 'Coral Plume' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- herbaceous perennial
- Height
- 2 metres
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Macleaya microcarpa 'Coral Plume'?
Macleaya microcarpa 'Coral Plume' prefers full sun and partial shade.
What soil does Macleaya microcarpa 'Coral Plume' need?
Macleaya microcarpa 'Coral Plume' grows best in well-drained soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How big does Macleaya microcarpa 'Coral Plume' grow?
Macleaya microcarpa 'Coral Plume' reaches a height of 2 metres.
Is Macleaya microcarpa 'Coral Plume' hardy in the UK?
Macleaya microcarpa 'Coral Plume' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
