Blind Poppy
papaver dubium
Also known as: ["Long-headed Poppy","Red Poppy"]
Overview
An annual flowering plant native to Europe, known for its bright red flowers with a dark center.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Papaverales |
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Genus: | Papaver |
| Botanical Name: | Papaver dubium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; deadhead flowers regularly.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; avoid heavy cuts as the plant is primarily grown for its flowers.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day); adjust for intense summer heat by providing partial afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun to prevent scorching; for indoor placement, use a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near heat sources.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test soil pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler spring and fall conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant; use a low-nitrogen formula for flowering plants.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; stem cuttings can also be used for some varieties.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly or take stem cuttings.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or a mix of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone can aid stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 1–3 weeks; stem cuttings root in 2–4 weeks and establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, rooting hormone (optional), misting spray bottle, heat mat (optional).
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; maintain consistent moisture; provide gentle air circulation to prevent mold.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip spent flowers just above a leaf node or lateral bud; trim damaged leaves at the base.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage and spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged parts; sterilize tools; prune carefully; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant becomes root-bound or the soil degrades; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use a layer of mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth or cause leaf damage; prolonged cold may lead to dormancy or death.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors during freezes; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; water before application; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the alkaloids in Papaver dubium, which can cause severe neurological and respiratory distress. The plant poses a significant risk of fatal poisoning if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe alkaloids in Papaver dubium are highly toxic to dogs, affecting the central nervous system and respiratory function. Ingestion can lead to severe poisoning and potentially fatal outcomes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicPapaver dubium contains alkaloids that can cause severe physiological effects, including respiratory depression and central nervous system depression. The plant's toxic compounds interfere with neurotransmitter function and can lead to significant systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Papaver dubium toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How easy is it to grow?
A: It is easy to grow and requires low maintenance.
Q: Does it attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
