Papaver orientale, commonly called Oriental Poppy, is among the most popular poppies available. They are clump-forming plants that most often feature flowers in shades of red, orange and pink. Serrated, thistle-like, grayish-green leaves (to 12” long) are pinnately dissected into lance-shaped segments and have a somewhat weedy appearance. Foliage yellows and dies shortly after flowering, typically leaving a hole in the garden. Basal mats of new leaves appear in fall and overwinter until spring when the foliage puts on a spurt of growth up until the point when the flowers bloom.
Best grown in organically rich, fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Performs well in average garden soils as long as drainage is good. This is a cold weather plant that needs a period of winter dormancy, and generally will not grow well south of USDA Zone 7. It is generally intolerant of the high summer heat and humidity in the deep South.
Divide in August/September.
Excellent for cutting, when picked just as the buds open.
Hardiness zone: 3-9
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Soil Moisture: Average or Moist
Blooming Time: Late Spring-Early Summer
Foliage Color: Light Green
Plant Uses: Border, Cut Flower, Fragrant
Flower Size: 4-6"
Height: 25-29 inches
Spread: 31-35 inches
Resistant for: Rabbit and Deer
Attracts: Butterflies