Papaver pilosum subsp. spicatum (Hairy poppy) — Bushy

Overview

Papaver pilosum subsp. spicatum is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Papaver, part of the Papaveraceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Papaver pilosum subsp. spicatum grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, low maintenance and flower borders and beds.

About

Papaver pilosum subsp. spicatum, known as spike-flowered hairy poppy or spiked poppy, is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the Papaver genus. It grows to a height and spread of 0.1 to 0.5 metres, reaching full size within 2 to 5 years. This deciduous plant thrives in full sun with south- or west-facing exposure and can tolerate both exposed and sheltered conditions. It prefers well-drained soils of various types, including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, across a range of pH levels. Its season of interest is spring.

About the genus

Papaver is a genus of 70–100 species of frost-tolerant annuals, biennials, and perennials native to temperate and cold regions of Eurasia, Africa and North America. It is the type genus of the poppy family, Papaveraceae.

Wikipedia contributors, "Papaver", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Papaver

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Papaver

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness: H6

Plant details

Papaver pilosum subsp. spicatum size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Herbaceous Perennial
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Deciduous
Height: 0.1-0.5 metres
Spread: 0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height: 2-5 years
Suggested uses: Cottage and informal garden, Low Maintenance, Flower borders and beds

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Papaver pilosum subsp. spicatum

Propagation: Division in spring, Root cuttings in late autumn to early winter
Pest resistance: Aphids
Disease resistance: Downy mildews, Powdery mildews, Fungal wilts, Verticillium wilt

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Papaver pilosum subsp. spicatum?

Papaver pilosum subsp. spicatum prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Papaver pilosum subsp. spicatum need?

Papaver pilosum subsp. spicatum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.