Papaver somniferum aka Opium Poppy

Caring for Opium Poppy is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Opium Poppy should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Opium Poppy loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Opium Poppy requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Common Garden Poppy is always in the right place to thrive.

During the cold period, it is common for Opium Poppy to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

The Opium Poppy grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.

New growth will sprout from the top of the Opium Poppy as it grows vertically.

Opium Poppy’s native range is Europe to Asia, though the original habitat is obscure. A rare casual in Britain.