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Papaver somniferum (Paeoniiflorum Group) 'Black Paeony'

poppy

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Fantastically large flowerheads are packed with dark plum (almost black), crumpled petals, which give the flower a frilly effect. These magnificent blooms sit on top of stout stems in summer and as the petals fall, attractive seed heads remain, which will add interest to the border for several months.

How to care for Papaver somniferum (Paeoniiflorum Group) Black Paeony:

These poppies tend to resent root disturbance, so plant or sow them in situ. If you don't want them to self-seed, then remove the spent flowerheads after the petals fall. If however you'd like another batch of self-sown seedlings in subsequent years, leave the seedheads intact, and when the seed has ripened, give them a gentle shake to spread their contents. When watering, avoid the 'little and often' approach, but when the soil becomes dry, water thoroughly so it can really soak in.

Sowing instructions:

Sow shallowly, directly into a well prepared bed in spring, or (for an earlier display the following year) late summer to early autumn. Water well and as the seedlings appear, thin them out to 30cm intervals keeping just the healthiest and most robust ones to develop.
Flowering period:
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
Eventual height:
1m
Eventual spread:
0.5m
Position:

Full sun

Rate of growth:

Fast-growing

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

Fully hardy

  • InformationHumans/Pets: Harmful if eaten

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SD30000561
approx 500 seeds
£3.49
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