Callirhoe involucrata – Purple Poppy Mallow, Winecups

General Information: This drought-tolerant, mat-forming native perennial reliably produces an abundance of chalice-shaped blossoms. Bright, vivid pink, blossoms don’t go unnoticed. When not in flower, the carpets of deeply lobed bright green leaves are equally appealing. They are not affected by foot traffic. Their native range includes dry meadows, prairies, open woods or fields, and rocky areas. Winecups will make an effective ground cover while adding a cheerful splash of color to a dry, difficult-to-plant area. They will be the perfect addition to your rock garden, or any dry area!

Edible Uses: The tuberous roots of Winecups are edible and can be consumed in a fashion similar to potatoes. They are described as having a similar flavor to Sweet Potatoes. The leaves are also edible and mucilaginous. They are useful for thickening soups and stews.

Cultivation Details: Winecups grow well from seed and may self-seed. They do not transplant well due to their long tap root and drought tolerance, which makes transplanting of established plants difficult. Hugging the ground, they will travel but not root as they travel, thus are not aggressive spreaders. Perfect for hanging baskets, or to fall up and over a patio planter. An individual plant can spread up to 3 feet in diameter. Reseeding can occur on bare soil, but is usually not aggressive. Consider Winecups in a native plant garden, a foundation planting, as a ground cover, or as a specimen. Ideal locations are dry, sunny areas, such as sandy or loamy hillsides or the south sides of structures. Note that the long tap roots can make transplanting difficult once established. They often do not survive root disturbance; however, growers have reported that this plant reseeds and blooms well after the aerial parts are pruned. A good addition for those looking to start xeriscaping or for areas with nutritionally poor soils. The plant is attractive to pollinators, a host for several Butterfly and Moth species, and is Deer-resistant.

Growing Requirements: Plant in full to Part Sun. Prefers moist or dry soils. Does not tolerate wet soils. Suitable in most soil types. Tolerant of acidic, neutral, and mildly alkaline soils.

Fun Facts: Known in some places as “Buffalo Rose,” reflecting a Midwestern origin.