Papaver somniferum
Papaver somniferum
Opium poppy
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Taxonomy
Family Papaveraceae · Genus Papaver
Description
Papaver somniferum, the classic opium or breadseed poppy, is a cool-season annual prized for its silky, crinkled blooms and handsome, ornamental seed pods. Easy from seed in sunny, well-drained sites, it adds cottage-garden charm and often self-seeds for future displays.
Common Names
Opium poppyBreadseed poppyGarden poppyPoppy
Context
nativeRegion
Eastern Mediterranean to Western Asia
usdaZones
Grown as a cool-season annual across USDA 2-11; commonly fall-sown in 7-10.
companionPlants
Nigella damascena (love-in-a-mist), Centaurea cyanus (cornflower), Larkspur (Consolida/Delphinium), Calendula, Dianthus, Sweet alyssum, Fine-textured ornamental grasses
culturalUses
Ornamental flowers and decorative pods for fresh or dried arrangements; culinary poppy seeds from selected cultivars; historic and pharmaceutical significance (cultivation/use may be regulated).
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun (6+ hours) for best flowering.
WateringModerate. Keep evenly moist during germination and establishment, then water deeply but infrequently. Avoid overwatering; somewhat drought tolerant once mature.
SoilWell-drained sandy or loamy soil, neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 6.5-7.5). Avoid heavy, waterlogged, or very rich soils. Sensitive to transplanting due to taproot.
FertilizerLight feeder. Mix in a small amount of balanced, slow-release fertilizer or compost at sowing. Excess nitrogen reduces blooms.
HumidityAverage to low humidity; ensure good air circulation to deter mildew.
TemperaturePrefers cool conditions (45-70°F/7-21°C). Seedlings tolerate light frost; heat above ~85°F/29°C shortens bloom period.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitErect, glaucous foliage with a strong taproot; papery, bowl-shaped flowers followed by round, pepperpot seed pods; self-seeding annual.
Mature SizeTypically 2-4 ft tall and 1-2 ft wide, depending on cultivar and conditions.
Growth RateFast-growing from seed.
BloomingLate spring to early summer; best and longest in cool weather.
DormancyAnnual; plants die after setting seed but often self-sow.
Propagation
MethodsSeed (direct sow), Self-seeding
DifficultyEasy by seed; avoid disturbing taproots.
Best SeasonFall in mild-winter climates; late winter to early spring in colder regions.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningDeadhead to extend flowering, or leave pods to mature for ornamental use. Stake taller cultivars in windy sites.
RepottingNot recommended; prefers direct sowing. If started in containers, use deep, biodegradable pots and transplant very young without disturbing the taproot.
Pests & DiseasesGenerally easy. Watch for aphids, thrips, and slugs/snails. In wet or crowded conditions: damping-off, root rot, powdery mildew, or botrytis. Ensure drainage and airflow.
ToxicityAll green parts and latex are toxic if ingested; sap may irritate skin. Mature culinary seeds from selected strains are generally safe when processed. Legal status varies—check local laws.
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