Family: Papaveraceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Hunnemannia fumariifolia, commonly known as Mexican tulip poppy, is a bright, ornamental flowering plant native to Mexico. It is valued for its showy, cup-shaped yellow to orange blossoms and finely divided, bluish-green foliage that gives it a delicate, airy appearance. This fast-growing annual or short-lived perennial thrives in sunny, well-drained conditions and is often planted in gardens for its long blooming season and ability to attract pollinators such as bees. Its drought tolerance and vibrant color make it a popular choice for xeriscaping and ornamental landscapes.

Risks & Threats
Mexican tulip poppy is naturalized on Maui and Hawaiʻi Island, indicating it has already established self-sustaining populations outside of cultivation. This species possesses traits that are cause for concern, including rapid growth, prolific seed production, and the ability to thrive in disturbed or open habitats. These characteristics allow it to spread beyond gardens and potentially compete with native vegetation. In tropical island ecosystems, this can lead to reduced biodiversity and ecosystem imbalance. Because of these risks, Mexican tulip poppy could detrimentally impact local environments, and it is recommended to choose a low-risk or native alternative for landscaping and gardening purposes.

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized beyond native range (e.g., Hawaii)
  
• Suited to tropical/subtropical climates
  
• History of repeated introductions (grown ornamentally)
  
• Produces viable seed
  
• Dispersed intentionally by people
  
• Can flower and produce seed in first year
  
• Seeds may be moved unintentionally in soil

Low Risk Traits:

• Not a weed of agriculture, or environment
  
• No congeneric weeds
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• No allelopathic or parasitic traits
  
• No documented toxicity to animals or humans
  
• No fire hazard
  
• Not shade-tolerant (requires full sun)
  
• No vegetative reproduction
  
• Not dispersed by wind, birds, or animals
  
• No prolific seed production or persistent seed bank