Oriental Poppy

(Papaver orientale)

Oriental Poppy (Papaver orientale)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Papaver orientale, commonly known as Oriental Poppy, is a deciduous perennial herb native to grasslands, rocky slopes, and subalpine regions in the Transcaucasus, northeastern Turkey, and northern Iran. It typically forms a mound of deeply lobed, hairy leaves in spring, which gather energy for the spectacular mid-summer bloom. The flowers are large, with vibrant colors ranging from red to orange and pink, and are quite showy, with a black blotch at the base of each petal. After flowering, the foliage dies back, allowing the plant to survive the summer drought conditions of its native habitat. Oriental Poppies can reach up to 2.5 feet in height and spread.

Oriental Poppy is valued for its striking flowers and ability to adapt to summer drought conditions. It is often used in border plantings, rock gardens, and cottage gardens. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy. It is best to avoid over-watering and transplanting, as the plant has a taproot system that does not like to be disturbed. Oriental Poppies are relatively low maintenance, requiring only occasional watering once established. Deadheading after the first bloom may encourage a second flowering. In winter, a layer of mulch can help protect the crown of the plant. Potential problems include root rot if over-watered and susceptibility to pests such as aphids.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-1.5 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Orange, Red
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Grasslands, rocky slopes, and subalpine regions in the Transcaucasus, northeastern Turkey, and northern Iran

Other Names

Common Names: Orientalsk Valmue, Orientalischer Mohn, Idänunikko, Pavot D’Orient, Oosterse Klaproos, Reuzenklaproos, Eldvallmo, Orientalisk Vallmo, Praktvallmo, Orientvallmo

Scientific Names: , Papaver orientale, Papaver pollakii, Calomecon orientale, Papaver dzeghamicum, Papaver grandiflorum, Papaver spectabile,

GBIF Accepted Name: Papaver orientale L.