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Prickly Poppy
Argemone corymbosa
Bristly and erect, 16-32" tall. 4-6 very white, crepe-like petals. 2-3 inches across with yellow stamens. 1" ovulate capsule with numerous tiny dark brown seeds.
Leaves and buds are covered with sharp thorns.
Flowers - April to May
Found in dry, sandy areas below 3,500', and in creosote bush scrub throughout the Mojave Desert
Poppy Family (Papaveraceae)
Desert Habitat:
Native American uses: Indians would use seeds to make a salve for burns, open wounds and head lice. Kawaiisu would roast seeds to induce vomiting and as a laxative.
References:
A Flower Watcher's Guide - Milt Stark
Desert Wildflowers - Philip A. Munz
Mojave Desert Wildflowers - Pam MacKay
The Jepson Desert Manual
Prickly poppy photo taken at Joshua Tree National Park