Papaver somniferum | Deep Plum

Sitting elegantly above it's silvery, grey-green highly cut foliage, the striking, deep plum flowers of this beautiful poppy are followed later in the season by attractive seed pods that can be used in dried arrangements.

Can also be used as a cut flower but be sure to either place the stems in hot water or dip the lower ends in boiling water for 5 seconds. Another method is to sear the cut ends with a flame for a few seconds and then to place the stems into warm water.  At season’s end, the seeds in the pods can be harvested and used for baking or replanting. Flowers are borne in late spring to early summer.  

These plants grow quickly and the first flowers appear in early December. The light green, pods are well-suited to floral arrangements and for drying. This annual variety will readily self-sow, so you will always have these stunning flowers popping up in the garden for years to come.

As poppies resent disturbance, we recommend cutting and removing the plant from the bag without disturbing the root ball and put it into position.  Poppies like a well-drained spot in full sun but you can also successfully grow them in pots.  Ensure that the plants are well watered to ensure that you maximise their flowering potential.

Poppies like manure, compost or bone meal ahead of planting, or you can use any organic fertiliser rich in nitrogen. Although these are hungry little feeders their dramatic flower show will be more than worth the care that you give them.

Height with flowers 80cm x 45-50cm Wide 

Annual | Will self sow

Plant size: PB2 - Equivalent 1.2 litres