About
This annual poppy, to 120cm high, with deeply toothed, pale green leaves with a pale reddish-brown tint around the edges. From June, dark pink flowers with white centres appear, followed by large, barrel-shaped blue-green seed pods.
About the genus
Papaver can be annuals, biennials or herbaceous perennials with simple or pinnately divided leaves and short-lived, saucer-shaped, 4-petalled flowers which may be solitary or in racemes
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitBushy, Columnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Prairie planting, Wildflower meadow
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Harmful if eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a sunny spot in well drained soil, with plenty of organic matter dug in before sowing
PruningNo pruning required but deadhead to prevent re-seeding
PropagationPropagate by seed in situ in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to downy mildews in wet conditions and fungal wilts