The pleasures of poppies

Flower & Garden Magazine, April-May, 1996 by Molly Dean

One of the most notable features of the Oriental poppies is their mysterious dark centers, often ringed by black blotches. The surrounding petals are often ruffled and distinctly reminiscent of crepe paper. The most common Oriental poppies are a brilliant orange-red; modern cultivars, however, come in rich crimson, purple, rose, orange and white. Some especially lovely varieties are `Raspberry Queen' and shimmery white `Springtime,' edged with pink frills.

After blooming in earliest summer, the foliage fades away completely, leaving gaps in the garden, so it's wise to plant Oriental poppies in groups if only two or th with late-blooming plants whose flowers and foliage develop rapidly, such as baby's breath, sea lavender, `Moonbeam' coreopsis, dahlias or Russian sage.

If provided with plenty of sun and well-draining soil, ideally composed of rich loam amended with organic materials and sand, Oriental poppies are not difficult to maintain. Mulch helps the roots stay cool and moist in summer and provides added protection in winter. The deep, fleshy taproot of this plant objects to any sort of disturbance; therefore, careful consideration should be given in deciding where to plant Oriental poppies.

With such diversity, it could be said that there is a poppy for every garden. In the past, I have focused on white and pink Oriental poppies for my pale garden. After seeing the poppies in North Carolina, however, I plan to duplicate the same naturalized effect, on a smaller scale, in my yard. By doing so I shall realize a cherished dream -- to wander in my own field of glowing, glorious poppies.