Corn Poppy, Flanders Poppy
papaver rhoeas
Also known as: ["Corn Rose","Field Poppy","Red Poppy"]
Overview
An annual flowering plant native to Europe and Asia, known for its vibrant red flowers with black centers, often associated with remembrance and wartime symbolism.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Papaverales |
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Genus: | Papaver |
| Botanical Name: | Papaver rhoeas |
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":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed during flowering season; deadhead spent blooms regularly.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning (deadheading only).
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for extreme heat by providing partial afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate seedlings gradually to full sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water at the base of the plant, ensure soil dries slightly between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay soils; mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); prefers cooler nights during flowering.
Plant in spring after last frost; protect from late frosts; monitor for heat stress during summer.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid lush foliage at the expense of flowers; stop fertilizing once buds form.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation; direct sow in fall or early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare soil.
- Scatter seeds.
- Lightly cover with soil.
- Water gently.
- Thin seedlings as needed.
Best Time: Early spring or fall when temperatures are mild.
Environment
Full sun, well-drained soil, and moderate moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix; can be sown directly in the garden or in pots.
Hormone
Not required for seeds.
Timeline
Germination in 1–2 weeks; flowering in 60–90 days.
Tools Needed
Garden trowel, watering can, seed tray or garden bed.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds where they are to grow; thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding; keep soil consistently moist until germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip spent flower stems just above a leaf node or pair of leaves.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on deadheading to encourage prolonged flowering.
Tools
Hand pruners or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; deadhead regularly; avoid cutting into main stems.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure adequate drainage.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out roots if pot-bound; ensure good drainage holes.
Suggestions
Not typically required as Papaver rhoeas is an annual; if grown in containers, repot annually in spring.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; check for root-bound plants; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, apply until the soil is moist but not saturated, ensure excess water drains away, and water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency as flowering begins; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage; incorporate perlite or sand for better aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature bud drop.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and delay flowering; frost can damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Plant in a sheltered location; use row covers or cloches in late spring; avoid planting too early in cold regions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; water deeply and mulch to retain soil moisture; avoid planting in hottest months.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilization; cease fertilizing during flowering.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing after flowering begins.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the alkaloids in Papaver rhoeas, which can lead to severe neurological and respiratory effects. Even small amounts can be dangerous.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe alkaloids in Papaver rhoeas can cause severe toxicity in dogs, affecting the central nervous system and respiratory function. Symptoms can range from mild sedation to life-threatening respiratory failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicPapaver rhoeas contains alkaloids that can have narcotic and toxic effects on the central nervous system. Ingestion can lead to respiratory depression, coma, and potentially fatal outcomes due to the presence of morphine-like compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Papaver rhoeas toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested in large quantities.
Q: How often should I water Papaver rhoeas?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does Papaver rhoeas attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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