Poppies Purple Peony

Papaver somniferum. Purple Peony poppies feature wonderful, fully double, tightly packed petals that result in a very striking appearance. The dramatic, peony-shaped flowers only open for one day. They can grow to 10cm (4″) across. The dried seed heads are highly ornamental, and the edible seeds can be used in baking. Purple Peony poppies are highly attractive to bees. Expected plant height to 90cm (36″).

Start perennial poppies the best bet is to direct sow in the fall.

Poppies are famously difficult to transplant, so starting them indoors is not recommended. If absolutely necessary, use peat or coir pots, and maintain a soil temperature of 12°C (55°F). Seeds will sprout in 20-30 days.

Poppies are easy to grow and the self-sow with abandon, without becoming weedy. Simply pull up unwanted plants (an easy task) before they bloom, or better yet, let them tell you where they want to grow. They will thrive for years at a time in surprising spots, like a crack in the driveway. Other times, they simply won’t take, no matter how much you try. Keep them moderately well watered in hot, dry weather, and do not fertilize.

For the largest heads on Papaver somniferum, sow seeds in the fall or early winter. Thin plants to allow them some space, and keep the area weeded as plants grow larger. Grow this variety in full sun in well-drained, but ordinary garden soil. If spring and summer are cool and damp, or plants are over-crowded, expect smaller seed heads.