Stylophorum diphyllum 'Wood Poppy'

Stylophorum diphyllum, commonly known as Wood Poppy, is a spring blooming native with vibrant yellow flowers and soft lobed foliage. It thrives in shaded rich woodland soils and self seeds gently to form small colonies beneath trees.

Height & Spread: 12 - 18 in x 12 - 18 in

Bloom Time: Spring to early summer

Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade

Soil Preference: Moist, rich woodland soil

Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture

Deer Resistance: Moderately deer resistant due to toxic sap

Native Status

Native to eastern North America, especially rich woodland habitats in the Midwest and Appalachian regions.

WILDLIFE & INSECTS

Butterflies

• Supports early butterflies by providing spring nectar in shaded environments.

Bees

• Visited by native bees, particularly in woodland edge habitats.

Hummingbirds

• Not a primary food source, but its bright blooms can complement shade plantings with hummingbird flowers.

Spacing & Landscape Use

Spacing Recommendations

• Plant 12 - 18 in apart to form colonies over time while maintaining spacing for air circulation.

Landscape Placement

• Excellent for woodland edges, shaded naturalized areas, and spring ephemeral displays. Combines well with ferns and spring blooming natives.

Companion Plants

• Mertensia virginica (Virginia Bluebells) - Blooms at the same time and complements the yellow flowers beautifully.
• Podophyllum peltatum (Mayapple) - Spreading foliage covers ground beneath open trees and matches habitat needs.
• Arisaema triphyllum (Jack-in-the-Pulpit) - Adds a sculptural form and thrives in similar shade and soil conditions.
• Asarum canadense (Wild Ginger) - Ground cover that protects soil moisture and pairs well with Wood Poppy foliage.
• Claytonia virginica (Spring Beauty) - A spring ephemeral that overlaps bloom season and habitat.