Nestled within a picturesque meadow, the Oriental poppies exude a captivating charm, with a soft salmon-colored blossom boldly standing out amongst a vibrant sea of orange-red companions. As the meadow fades into the horizon, the plump seedpods bear witness to the fleeting allure of these flowers, beautifully captured through Roger Foley’s lens, capturing nature’s transient beauty.
The Oriental poppy, a muse for those with a poetic heart, is often described as “splendid,” “luminous,” and “silky.” Originating from the striking red-orange hue of Papaver orientale, breeders have crafted a stunning array of colors ranging from deep reds and oranges to delicate pinks and pure whites. Delve into their center to find the unique obsidian smudges and a cluster of stamens cradling the ovary, eventually forming a seed-filled capsule. These flowers, ranging from single to semi-double blooms, unfurl their delicate petals on tall stems reaching 2 to 4 feet high, surrounded by lush, hairy foliage that grows more grand with each passing year.
The charm of these blooms lies in their resemblance to Folies-Bergère petticoats, dancing above the rugged, furry leaves with grace. While their blooming season is short-lived and their leaves disappear in the heat of summer, their vibrant presence leaves a lasting impression. When paired thoughtfully with other plants, they elegantly navigate their unique characteristics.
Thriving in temperate climates such as North America in Zones 5 to 7, Oriental poppies struggle to thrive in the sweltering humidity of Zone 8 and beyond. For a dazzling display, consider the ‘ORANGE GLOW’ variety, with its fiery orange and golden yellow petals standing tall on sturdy 3-foot stems.
‘Helen Elizabeth’: A popular variety, it features crimped, peachy-pink flowers swaying gracefully on tall stems measuring between 24 to 30 inches.
The ‘Gray Widow’ flower features a beautiful combination of frosty white petals with a hint of lavender, contrasted by dark basal spots and deep purple-black stamens. Standing at a grand height of 28 inches, it creates a captivating display in any garden.
‘RASPBERRY ROYALTY’: Regal 3-foot stems proudly showcase luxurious raspberry-rose flowers, featuring delicate petals embellished with dark spots.
‘MAIDEN’S BLUSH’: Large, frilly flowers in a combination of white and soft pink bloom to a width of 6 inches on tall 24- to 30-inch stems, adding beauty to the later part of the poppy season.
‘TURKEN LOUIS’: A stunning display of vibrant red flowers with delicate edges and deep centers, standing tall on stalks reaching up to 30-36 inches, inviting viewers to come closer and admire their beauty.
‘JULIANE’: A flawless, pristine, medium-pink bloom hailing from Germany, boasting stems that reach 24 to 30 inches tall.
‘CHINA BOY’: These striking flowers feature big, frilly orange petals and soft white centers, standing tall on stems that reach up to three feet high.
‘DEGAS’: A variety that blooms later than others, shining with a vibrant deep orange color and featuring dark inner blotches, standing tall on 28-inch stems.
‘CEDAR HILL’: Graceful, solitary, soft-pink blooms sway elegantly on tall 3-foot stems, signaling the arrival of Oriental poppy season. Originating in 1924 at Viette Farm and nursery in Fishersville, Virginia, by Martin Viette, this variety is currently maintained by his son André and grandson Mark, who captured the beauty of these poppies in a photograph.
In their search for plenty, these flowers crave the warmth of the sun but can handle a bit of shade without losing their vibrant colors. They can thrive in shady spots under tall trees in Zone 8, but too much shade can cause them to grow slowly and their stems to droop.
The best soil for these amazing plants is well-drained, deep, and fertile, with a mix of organic material known as “loam.” They can also adapt to slightly clay-like or sandy soil. Make sure the soil doesn’t become waterlogged, especially in winter or summer, to avoid root rot and keep the plants healthy.
Growing Oriental poppies requires a delicate balance – they can be tough yet finicky. Plant them in the middle or end of summer while they are dormant, or in the fall as they start to grow leaves, being careful not to disturb their fragile roots. Moving them from pots while they are in bloom ensures that you enjoy their beautiful colors. Planting them with complementary flowers like baby’s breath can hide their summer dormancy and fill in any gaps in the garden. There are many other perennials, shrubs, and annuals that can also be planted with them, or simply add some mulch to mark their resting spots and provide shade.