Poppy (Papaver)

Papaver is a genus of flowering plants from the Northern Hemisphere. There are about 40 species of Poppy in existence, some are important ornamental plants, while the Opium Poppy Papaver somniferum is an important medicinal crop. P.somniferum produces opium (which is used to make many different drugs) and the culinary poppy seed. In Australia the Iceland Poppy Papaver nudicaule  is probably the most popular, it has long bare stems, big showy flowers and will bloom through winter. All species of Poppy can be identified by their large colourful flowers with petals that resemble the texture of crepe paper. Flowers come in various shades of Red, violet, orange, white, yellow or pink and are borne on long stems. All species also secrete a milky sap.

Care

Poppies love a rich well drained soil and full sun, they will need protection from strong winds which may flatten flower stems. About a month after planting, you can start to give them a feed, apply a general purpose slow release fertiliser and then a liquid fertiliser every few weeks. Its best to pick off the first few flower buds of each plant, this will result in a healthier, stronger plant. Spent flowers can be removed to encourage fresh blooms. If using as a cut flower, pick early in the morning just as they are opening, if picked at this stage flowers can last up to a week indoors.

Uses

Excellent as a cut flower sue to their long straight stems. Great when planted en masse in garden beds or in mixed plantings. Also suitable for container growing amongst other flowing annuals and bulbs.

Varieties

'Artists Glory' - Gold, lemon, apricot and salmon coloured flowers.

'Matilda' - Red, orange, yellow and apricot in colour up to 50cm tall.