Common Name: Oriental Poppy
Papery, white, flouncy blooms are borne on wiry, pubescent stems from late spring thru early summer. The petals have a crepe-like appearance and a satiny texture. Each flower can measure 4 to 6 inches across.
In the center of a poppy's flower rests a very large, velvety-black seed capsule surrounded by prominent, dark purple stamens. Altogether, these flowers absolutely steal the show when they are in bloom. After the bloom cycle is completed however, these perennials will go dormant, so plan on planting other plants nearby to fill in the gaps.
Poppies are popular and undemanding plants that have been grown for generations. When in bloom, they are the stars of the flower border, oozing vivid colours of every shade except blue. They will perform best in rich, well-drained soils in full sun. Plant divisions are best made in late summer or early fall.
Poppies are prized cut flowers. They should be cut just when buds start to break and their ends should be seared to prevent sap leakage from their stems.