Oriental Poppy Papaver (Oriental Group) 'Black and White'
ABOUT
The plant known as 'Black and White' from the Oriental Group of poppies is a striking and unique perennial that catches the eye with its bold coloring. This Oriental poppy stands out with its large, deeply-saturated blooms. The flowers are characterized by their distinct two-tone palette: immaculate white petals contrasted by a dramatic black blotch at the base. The blooms themselves are cup-shaped and can be quite large, making a showy display with their crisp, clean colors. Each petal is delicate yet sturdy, often featuring a gently crinkled texture that adds depth and interest to the flower's appearance. At the heart of the bloom, the black base is usually highlighted by prominent, powdery black stamens, which create a stunning visual effect against the surrounding white petals. The foliage of the 'Black and White' poppy is equally noteworthy. The leaves are a lush, green color, offering a soft, feathery backdrop that further accentuates the flowers' beauty. The leaves grow near the base of the plant, forming a clump that partially recedes when the plant goes dormant after flowering. Overall, this cultivar is prized for its ornamental quality and the stark contrast of its blooms, providing an eye-catching addition to any garden setting. The 'Black and White' poppy is an elegant plant that can serve as a dramatic focal point or as part of a color-themed floral arrangement in the landscape.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Oriental Poppy, Black and White Poppy.
Common names
Papaver orientale 'Black and White'.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Oriental poppy can be toxic to humans if ingested. While Oriental poppies are not the most toxic members of the Papaver genus, they do contain alkaloids that can cause harm if consumed in large quantities. The symptoms of poisoning from Oriental poppies may include stomach pain, confusion, drowsiness, and respiratory depression. The severity of symptoms can vary based on the amount of plant material ingested and the sensitivity of the individual involved. It is advisable to avoid eating any part of this plant and to seek medical help if ingestion occurs and any symptoms of poisoning become evident.
To pets
Oriental poppy is also toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats, if ingested. The plant contains alkaloids that can lead to poisoning, with symptoms mirroring those in humans, including gastrointestinal upset (such as vomiting and diarrhea), sedation, and respiratory issues. If a pet ingests Oriental poppies, the consequences could potentially be serious, and immediate veterinary attention should be sought. It is important for pet owners to prevent their animals from having access to this plant to avoid accidental ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-7
Native area
Caucasus, Northeast Turkey, Northern Iran
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The 'Black and White' cultivar of Oriental poppy offers a striking contrast of colors, adding visual interest to garden settings.
- Seasonal Interest: Blooms in late spring to early summer, providing a splash of color when many other plants are just starting to grow.
- Attracts Pollinators: The blossoms attract bees and other beneficial pollinators, which are essential for the health of the garden ecosystem.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Oriental poppies are relatively drought resistant, making them suitable for xeriscaping or low-water gardens.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial, the plant returns each year, reducing the need for yearly replanting and cultivation.
- Easy to Grow: Oriental poppies are not demanding and can thrive in a range of soil conditions, as long as they have good drainage.
- Maintenance: The plant requires minimal maintenance, aside from deadheading to promote further flowering and prevent self-seeding.
- Winter Interest: After the foliage dies back, the seed pods provide winter interest and can be used in dried flower arrangements.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The petals of the Oriental Poppy 'Black and White' can be used in potpourri to add a visual element due to their striking color contrast.
- Pressed flower craft is another unusual use, as the distinctive petals of this poppy can create beautiful patterns when dried and pressed into bookmarks or cards.
- In photography, the unique appearance of the Oriental Poppy 'Black and White' serves as a captivating subject for botanical photographs.
- As a natural dye, the deep colors of the poppy petals can be used to tint textiles and papers.
- Garden designers often use this plant for its bold colors to create striking contrasts in garden beds and borders.
- The dried seed pods of the Oriental Poppy 'Black and White' add structural interest to winter gardens when left on the plant.
- The seed pods can also be used in dried floral arrangements, which remain attractive long after the blooming season.
- The plant's strong visual appeal serves as inspiration for artists and can be found rendered in various forms of fine art.
- In educational gardens, Oriental Poppies like 'Black and White' can be used to demonstrate pollinator attraction to students and visitors.
- Culinary artists sometimes use the non-toxic petals of Oriental Poppy 'Black and White' as a decorative garnish for desserts and salads.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Oriental Poppy is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Oriental Poppy is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rest and Sleep: Poppies have long been associated with sleep, due in part to the opiate properties found in some species. The 'Black and White' variety shares this symbolism, with its nodding heads being reminiscent of a state of tranquility and rest.
- Peace: The poppy is a symbol for peace and is often worn to commemorate those who have died in war with the hope for a peaceful future, an association stemming from the poem "In Flanders Fields" for red poppies.
- Death and Remembrance: Poppies, particularly the red kind, are used to honor fallen soldiers and are symbols of remembrance. The 'Black and White' poppy, though different in color, can still signify memory and respect for what is past.
- Imagination: The poppy's vivid and varied colors have made it a symbol of imagination and dreams. The unique 'Black and White' coloring suggests the duality of fantasy and reality and can represent creative thinking.
- Resilience: Poppies can thrive in difficult conditions, growing even on disturbed ground such as battlefields, symbolizing human resilience and our ability to overcome hardship.
WaterOriental poppies like the 'Black and White' variety prefer not to be overwatered. Water them deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out somewhat between watering. A general rule is to provide about 1 inch of water per week, whether from rainfall or manual watering. During the hot summer months, they may require a bit more water to keep them hydrated. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant, so the roots receive the moisture they need.
LightOriental poppies such as 'Black and White' thrive in full sun conditions. They prefer a spot that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily to perform well. Partial shade is tolerated, but too much shade will result in weaker plants with fewer blooms. Ensure they have ample sunlight for the best growth and flowering.
TemperatureThe 'Black and White' poppy does well in a range of temperatures but prefers cooler conditions. They can survive winter temperatures down to about -30 degrees Fahrenheit but are best grown in areas where summer temperatures do not exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal growing temperature range for Oriental poppies is between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPrune Oriental poppies like 'Black and White' to maintain plant health and appearance. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage additional blooming and cut back foliage after it has died back in the summer to keep the garden tidy. The best time for pruning is after the flowering has finished and the leaves begin to yellow.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Oriental Poppy 'Black and White' prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. A mix containing equal parts of garden soil, compost, and coarse sand or perlite works well. Ensure good aeration and drainage to prevent root rot.
RepottingOriental Poppies 'Black and White' typically do not need frequent repotting as they are perennial plants. They may be divided and repotted every few years to refresh the soil or to manage their spread.
Humidity & MistingOriental Poppy 'Black and White' is tolerant of a range of humidity levels and grows best in average room humidity. Excessive humidity can promote fungal diseases, so ensure good air circulation.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light; ensure well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Papaver orientale 'Black and White', commonly known as Oriental Poppy, begins with seed germination, which typically occurs in early spring or late autumn when soil temperatures are cool. Upon germination, the seedlings start developing a rosette of leaves at ground level. As temperatures increase in late spring, the plant's growth accelerates and a sturdy flower stalk emerges, culminating in the blooming of its distinctive black and white flowers, usually in late spring or early summer. After flowering, the Oriental Poppy sets seed within a capsule, and by midsummer, the plant enters a period of dormancy showing signs of dying back, especially in hot climates. The seeds are dispersed as the capsule dries and opens, allowing for self-sowing or collection for propagation. The plant remains dormant underground through its taproot system until the following spring, when the cycle resumes with new foliage growth.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
The Oriental Poppy 'Black and White', a striking perennial known for its large, dramatic blooms, is most commonly propagated by seed. To propagate from seed, sow seeds in late winter to early spring, ideally, in seed trays or pots. The seeds need light to germinate, so they should be sown on the surface of a well-draining soil mix and not covered. It is important to maintain a temperature of about 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (18-21 degrees Celsius) for optimal germination, which can take anywhere from 14 to 28 days. After the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots and then later moved outdoors once the threat of frost has passed and they have had a chance to harden off.
