Matilija poppy: The American flower named for an Irishman

Fiann Ó Nualláin’s horticultural hero for this month is geographically linked to the TV show, The High Chaparral.

I know for many gardeners, being asked about your favourite flower or plant is a bit like being asked which is your favourite child.

In my case, as with many others, that sort of question is downright offensive — it would be preposterous to single out one plant — they are all great.