Atlantic Poppy
papaver atlanticum
Also known as: ["Flanders Poppy","Mediterranean Poppy"]
Overview
A perennial poppy species native to the Mediterranean region, known for its vibrant orange flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Genus: | Papaver |
| Botanical Name: | Papaver atlanticum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate sandy or rocky soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; light pruning can be done as needed to remove dead or damaged growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, especially in cooler coastal climates; partial shade in hot inland areas.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; rotate pots for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); tolerates coastal fog and cooler summers; sensitive to extreme heat.
Avoid planting in hot, exposed sites; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in warm conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm roots; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is not in full bloom.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–4 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim back leggy stems; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape; cut back after flowering to rejuvenate.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean knife, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools before use; prune after flowering; remove dead or diseased parts; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial to refresh soil and provide more space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water begins to drain from the bottom; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during spring and early summer when actively growing; reduce frequency in late summer and fall; minimal watering in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or failure to flower in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause root damage; prolonged cold can lead to plant death, especially in wet soil.
Solution: Plant in well-drained soil to prevent cold root damage; provide winter mulch for insulation; move containers to sheltered locations.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, bud drop, and reduced flowering; may go dormant if conditions are too hot and dry.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering during heatwaves; use mulch to keep roots cool and retain moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season only; avoid contact with plant stems.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and early summer); avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the alkaloids in Papaver atlanticum, which can cause severe neurological and respiratory effects. Even small amounts can lead to significant poisoning.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe alkaloids present in Papaver atlanticum can cause severe toxicity in dogs, affecting the central nervous system and respiratory function. Ingestion can lead to serious health complications, including respiratory failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicPapaver atlanticum contains alkaloids that can have significant physiological effects, including respiratory depression and central nervous system depression. The plant's toxicity is due to compounds such as morphine and codeine, which can lead to severe poisoning if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Papaver atlanticum toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does it 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 to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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