Papaver

Papaver spp.

Confirmed supplied format: 5L pot

Plant Highlights

• Large, silky poppy flowers in a range of colours
• Excellent for sunny borders and cottage gardens
• Attractive to bees and other pollinating insects
• Upright clump-forming perennial
• Bold early summer display

Overview

Papaver, commonly known as poppy, is a herbaceous perennial valued for its spectacular, tissue-like flowers and upright growth. Depending on the variety, blooms may appear in a range of colours and are carried on strong stems above attractive, softly textured foliage, creating a striking display during late spring and early summer.

Poppies are ideal for adding height and vibrant seasonal colour to sunny borders, where they combine beautifully with ornamental grasses and other summer-flowering perennials. Their bold flowers also make excellent cut blooms, while the decorative seed heads can provide additional interest after flowering if left in place.

Why We Love It

• Large, eye-catching flowers brighten early summer borders.
• Attractive to bees and other beneficial pollinating insects.
• Decorative seed heads extend seasonal interest.
• Easy to grow in sunny, well-drained gardens.
• Excellent companion for cottage and naturalistic planting schemes.

Plant Details

Growing Guide

Position

Plant in a sunny, open position where the flowers receive plenty of direct sunlight. Avoid heavily shaded locations, which can reduce flowering.

Watering

Water regularly during establishment. Once established, plants usually require additional watering only during prolonged dry spells. Avoid prolonged waterlogging, particularly during winter.

Soil

Grow in fertile, free-draining soil. Incorporating grit or organic matter into heavier soils will improve drainage and help maintain healthy crowns.

Hardiness and Winter Care

Papavers are hardy throughout Ireland when grown in well-drained soil. The foliage naturally dies back after flowering, with fresh growth emerging again the following season.

Routine Care

Deadhead faded flowers if seed heads are not required to encourage a tidy appearance. Leave attractive seed heads in place for additional ornamental interest if desired, then cut old stems back once they have finished.

Perfect For

• Sunny mixed borders.
• Cottage gardens.
• Wildlife and pollinator-friendly planting.
• Naturalistic perennial displays.
• Fresh and dried flower arrangements.

Good to Know

This product may include different perennial Papaver varieties. Flower colour, flowering time and mature size can vary between cultivars, while the general growing requirements remain the same.

Product Information

• Supplied in a 5L pot.