Common
name: "Oriental Poppy"
Latin name: Papaver orientale
Zone: 4
- 9
Elevation to: 10,000'
Growth habit: Clump forming
Max height: 20" - 36"
Spread: 24"
Flowers: Yes, May - June Flower type: Cup shaped
Native to area: No
Available varieties: 8+
Perennial
Cultivation:
The large orange flowered Oriental Poppy is probably the most
popular plant in the Poppy family. It is a prolific grower that is
really easy to keep. Sometime during late May or June the plant
will start producing its large 4" to 5" bright orange
flowers. The flowers generally only last a day or two and are then
followed by large green seed pods that are excellent for drying.
Plant Oriental Poppies in full sun in fertile well drained soil.
Shade tends to inhibit flower production and cause the plants to stretch.
Once established Oriental Poppies tolerate drought and neglect
quite well. Oriental
Poppies will begin to die back or go dormant after flowering. When
the plants become unsightly they can be cut back to the ground.
For continual color it is best to intermingle Oriental Poppies with
other perennials that flower later in the season. Poppy flowers are good
for cutting but are short lived.
Propagation:
Purchased seed or collected seed can be started in a cold frame or greenhouse and moved
outdoors after danger of frost has passed. Oriental
Poppy is fairly slow to grow from seed. For quicker growth
purchase pre-started plants in packs or pots from your local
garden shop or greenhouse. Space new container grown plants 18" - 24" apart.
Once established, plants can be easily divided in
spring.
