Papaver rupifragum (Spanish poppy) — Bushy

Overview

Papaver rupifragum 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 rupifragum 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, gravel garden, wildflower meadow and flower borders and beds.

About

Papaver rupifragum, commonly known as Spanish poppy, is a bushy herbaceous perennial from the Papaveraceae family. 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 a preference for south- or west-facing aspects and can tolerate both exposed and sheltered conditions. It adapts well to various soil types, including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, across a range of pH levels, provided the soil is well-drained. Its season of interest spans spring and summer.

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 rupifragum 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, Gravel garden, Wildflower meadow, Flower borders and beds

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Papaver rupifragum

Propagation: Seed, Division in spring, Root cuttings in late autumn and 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 rupifragum?

Papaver rupifragum prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Papaver rupifragum need?

Papaver rupifragum 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.