Papaver

Papaver - Poppy

Papavers come as annual, bi-annual and perennials. The annuals (Papaver rhoeas) can be sown from the packet. The bi-annuals include the so-called Iceland Poppy's (Papaver nudicaule). The largest group of Papaver is fortunately perennial (Papaver orientale). They come in all sorts of beautiful colours. Papaver likes a spot in the sun in normal soil which should not be compacted, as the plant roots deep. After flowering, Papaver will nearly completely die back above ground. The gaps that then appear in the border can be filled by annuals or perennials which spread strongly, like Gypsophila paniculata, Geranium 'Rozanne' or Geranium 'Ann Folkard'. After flowering, cut away the flower stems of Papaver to prevent seed forming. This will keep the plant true. Papaver is suitable as a cut flower as long as it is picked when still in bud.