Papaver somniferum

Opium Poppy

Fast-growing, upright annual plant to 75cm high by 30cm wide. The leaves are grey-green, oblong and lobed. The 10cm wide, saucer-shaped, four-petalled flowers are white, red, purple or pink, typically have yellow centres and occur in summer.

Uses

Ornamental flower suitable for cottage gardens and as a bedding plant. The sap from the seed capsules is used to make the narcotic opium.

Culture

Grow in full sun in cool or temperate climates. Prefers deep, moist, well-drained soil. Frost tolerant. Propagate from seed. Self-seeds readily. Prohibited plant in many parts of the world.

Propagation

No information available at this time...