Papaver orientale 'Helen Elizabeth'

Papaver orientale 'Helen Elizabeth' is absolutely breathtaking. The large bowl-shaped, salmon-pink flowers with crinkled edges appear in late spring. Their centers are accented by a velvety-black seed head surrounded by dark purple stamens. They provide a striking contrast when planted near purple Tall Bearded Iris.

When you want to introduce excitement into the June border, consider Oriental Poppies, for their ruffled and shimmering petals pack more pigment than you can imagine. Plant these clump-forming perennials in sunny spots with well-draining soil that tends to be on the drier side. (Poppies will not thrive and may not even survive in soil that is wet.) Match these late spring favorites with summer bloomers or annuals that spread out and will conceal their early dormancy. Adding to their appeal, Oriental Poppies produce fuzzy, gray-green foliage and ornamental seed pods. Over time, they typically spread 18" to 24" but are not invasive. Poppies make stunning cut flowers if you sear the ends of freshly cut stems with a match.

Special considerations for growing Oriental Poppies:

• Papaver orientale thrives in climates with dry summers, but is intolerant of high heat with humidity. The plants also need a period of cold winter temperatures. Therefore, we do not recommend planting in areas warmer than Zone 7.
• Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Avoid overly rich or wet soils.
• Plant the bareroot Poppies in fall upon arrival with the crown 2-3" below the soil level. Some of the new shoots may appear above ground. Water sparingly while the bareroot establishes itself and mulch lightly.
• Expect plants to establish roots and foliage the first year after planting but produce few flowers. By the second year, established plants will bloom more abundantly and the blossom count will continue to rise as plants age.
• Papaver foliage and flowers appear in late spring then the plant goes dormant for summer. The foliage dies back completely in most climates by midsummer, which is entirely normal. During this dormancy period, minimize watering and do not fertilize. In early fall, prior to overwintering, any new foliage that may appear should not be cut back.

For more information on growing Oriental Poppies, click Growing Guide.