The Oriental poppy ( Papaver orientale), not to be confused with its cousin, the opium poppy, is a brilliant, silken, flowering perennial that is native to the mountains of Turkey. This hardy perennial is grown for its gorgeous, colorful blossoms that bloom in late spring, and for the delicious seeds it produces in abundance. The Oriental poppy is ideal for many gardens, because it is easy to grow and care for, and it is available in sizes and colors that will complement almost any garden theme.
Features
The Oriental poppy is one of the most distinctive culinary herbs, with its brilliant ruffled flowers that may be more than 6 inches in diameter. Each flower has 6 scarlet, white, orange, coral or pink petals that are complemented by black markings at their base and a dramatic purplish-black stamen. The Oriental poppy can reach a height of 5 feet in some varieties, and it usually blooms in May or June.
The foliage of the Oriental poppy consists of bright green oblong leaves that are approximately 3 inches long, and a long rigid stalk. The foliage is covered with fine hairs.
Types
There are many varieties of Oriental poppy to choose from. All require the same basic care, but vary in color, size, blooming season, type of petals and stamen, and trim colors.
The Harlem variety has ruffled burgundy-rose petals, and it blooms twice each season. The Blue Himalayan poppy has small sky-blue flowers, and is best suited to cooler climates. The Beauty of Livermere is a deep red variety, with small black markings, that grows to 3 feet high.
You can find a variety of poppy in just about any color or style that will add a nice touch to any spot in your garden.
Considerations
Plant Oriental poppy seedlings 12 to 18 inches apart, in well-drained soil where they will receive full sun. The plants will become dormant and the tops will die off after flowering, but new foliage will emerge in the fall. Plan your garden with this in mind, so you are not left with any empty spots.
Water lightly until the foliage dies off. Cover the plants with a thick layer of mulch during the winter. You can pick the faded blossoms, or leave them alone and allow the plant to reseed.
Benefits
The seeds of the Oriental poppy are edible, tasty and nutritious. They are high in calcium and beneficial fatty acids, and they have an appealing nutty, spicy flavor. They are often ground and used as a filling in sweet pastries, or sprinkled on top of baked goods. Poppy seeds can be used to add flavor and nutrition to salad dressings, soups, casseroles and dips.
Warning
Poppies are beautiful in bouquets and arrangements, but cut flowers of the Oriental poppy require special care, or they will fade quickly. Harvest the flower as soon as it blooms, with a sharp pair of shears or a knife. Immediately sear the end of the stem with an open flame, and then quickly plunge the stem into cold water.
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