Oriental Red Perennial Poppies
Native to Asia, oriental poppies (Papaver orientale) have been cultivated in gardens for centuries. Given the right growing conditions, oriental poppies are long-lived, easy perennials that add a bright spot of color in late spring and early summer gardens. Red poppies are especially dramatic and eye-catching. Does this Spark an idea?
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About Oriental Poppies
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Oriental poppies form a basal clump of deeply lobed, blue-green foliage, 18 to 24 inches wide. The foliage goes dormant after the flowers fade and returns in the fall when cool weather appears. The 4- to 6-inch flowers are borne individually on tall stems that reach up to 4 feet, depending on cultivar. Each flower lasts only a day or two, but the flower display lasts up to two weeks, depending on weather conditions. A flattened seed pod forms after the petals fall; it's ornamental in winter arrangements. Oriental poppies are hardy throughout U.S. Department of Agriculture plant zones 2 to 7. They don't grow well in hot, humid areas such as the South or Gulf Coast.
Cultural Needs
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Grow oriental poppies in full sun in moist, well-drained soil. Good drainage is especially important for winter survival, regardless of climate. The leaves that reappear in fall should be allowed to remain during the winter. Plant poppies near perennials that bush out in summer, such as daylilies (Hemerocallis) or baby's breath (Gypsophila). Oriental poppies have a long taproot and are difficult to transplant; if moved, they many not re-bloom for several years. They're rarely bothered by insects or diseases, although you occasionally see aphids or slugs; mildew can be a problem in humid areas.
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Red Cultivars
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Red is a popular color in oriental poppies and many cultivars are available. Beauty of Livermore grows 3 to 4 feet tall, with deep red flowers with a dark splotch at the center. Allegro has scarlet-red flowers, also with a dark splotch. Brilliant has clear, scarlet-red flowers, and Turkenlouis has bright red flowers with fringed edges. Warlord is a dark red cultivar. Two red-and-white bi-colors are Carnival and Pinnacle, a white poppy with red edges.
Poppies as Cut Flowers
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Red oriental poppies make beautiful, but short-lived, cut flowers. Cut them in the early morning while the buds are still tightly closed. The cut stems exude a milky sap, so sear the ends with a flame before putting the flowers in water.
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