Corn Poppy

(Papaver rhoeas)

Corn Poppy (Papaver rhoeas)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Papaver rhoeas image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Papaver rhoeas, commonly known as Corn Poppy, is an erect annual herb native to a wide range of habitats including agricultural land, roadsides, and disturbed soils across Europe and Asia. It has adapted to survive in temperate climates and is particularly associated with the fields of Western Europe, where it became a symbol of remembrance after World War I. The plant reaches up to 70 cm (28 in) in height and has a slender, hairy stem. The flowers are large and showy, 5–10 cm (2–4 in) across, with four petals that are most commonly vivid red with a black spot at their base. The petals slightly overlap and the flowers bloom from late spring to early autumn, peaking between May and July, with each flower lasting just one day. The plant can produce an abundant display of up to 400 flowers in a warm season. After flowering, it forms a capsule containing numerous seeds, which contribute to its long-lived soil seed bank.

Corn Poppy is valued for its striking floral display and is often used in wildflower mixes, meadow gardens, and as a symbol of remembrance. It is easy to grow and can thrive in a variety of soil types, although it prefers full sun and well-drained soils. It is hardy to USDA Zone 8 to Zone 10. While it is not demanding in terms of water, moderate watering will support better flowering. However, gardeners should be cautious as Papaver rhoeas can be potentially invasive outside its native range, particularly in parts of the United States, and may outcompete native flora.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.8-1.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Red, Purple, White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Wide range of habitats including agricultural land, roadsides, and disturbed soils across Europe and Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Corn Rose, Flanders Poppy, Field Poppy, Flanders Poppy, Common Poppy, Red Poppy, Korn-Valmue, Klatschmohn, Klatsch-Mohn, Silkkiunikko

Scientific Names: , Papaver rhoeas, Papaver erraticum, Papaver rhoeas f. rhoeas, Papaver rhoeas var. rhoeas, Papaver rhoeas f. strigosum, Papaver rhoeas var. vestitum, Papaver umbrosum, Papaver rhoeas var. pallidum, Papaver hookeri

GBIF Accepted Name: Papaver rhoeas L.