Papaver aka Poppy

Taxonomy

Papaver is a genus of 70–100 species of frost-tolerant annuals, biennials, and perennials native to temperate and cold regions of Eurasia, Africa, and North America. It is the type genus of the poppy family, Papaveraceae. This perennial poppy, reaching a height of up to 80cm when in bloom, features bristly stems and divided, hairy green leaves. During late spring to early summer, it produces large, bowl-shaped dark pink flowers with lightly crinkled petals and intriguing black blotches at the base. Poppies, in general, are herbaceous plants cultivated for their vibrant and colorful flowers. However, one particular species, Papaver somniferum, stands out as it is the origin of opium, a narcotic drug. Opium contains potent medicinal alkaloids, including morphine, and has been utilized since ancient times as both an analgesic and a recreational drug.

Common names

Poppy

How to care for Poppy

Difficulty

Poppy requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Lighting

Poppy requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Poppy will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Poppy to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.


More info:
Wikipedia