Common poppy Papaver rhoeas 'Picotee Mixed'
ABOUT
The 'Picotee Mixed' variety of the common poppy features a stunning range of flowers, which exhibit a distinctive edge that contrasts with the base color of the petals. These edges give the flowers a delightful, intricate look, almost as if they've been carefully hand-painted or outlined by an artist. The petals themselves are silky and delicate, coming in a mixture of vibrant colors like reds, pinks, and even white. Some blossoms might be a solid color with only the fine, picotee edge in a different hue, while others may have shading or gradients that add to their overall exquisite appearance. The blooms are typically large and showy, commanding attention with their broad, often overlapping petals that form a cup or bowl-like shape. Each flower is supported by a single, slender stalk, which adds to the plant's graceful presentation in the garden. The leaves of the plant are generally ferny and soft, presenting a muted green backdrop that makes the colorful flowers stand out even more. When in full bloom, the 'Picotee Mixed' common poppy creates an eye-catching display, with the varied colors of the petals intermingling to create a tapestry of hues that can transform a landscape. The plant is particularly loved for its colorful and lively addition to gardens, presenting a spectacle that garners appreciation from seasoned gardeners and casual observers alike.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Papaveraceae
Synonyms
Common Poppy, Corn Poppy, Field Poppy, Flanders Poppy, Red Poppy
Common names
Papaver rhoeas 'Picotee Mixed'.
ToxicityTo humans
Commonly known as the corn poppy, Papaver rhoeas 'Picotee Mixed' is considered to have low toxicity to humans. While not typically eaten, ingestion of this plant is generally not expected to cause serious harm. However, since all parts of the plant contain alkaloids, consumption in large quantities may lead to mild discomfort, including gastrointestinal irritation such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Always seek medical advice if ingestion occurs and symptoms develop.
To pets
The corn poppy, Papaver rhoeas 'Picotee Mixed', is also known to have low toxicity to pets. Ingestion of plant material could potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea in pets like dogs and cats. It is not considered highly toxic, but pets should still be discouraged from consuming any part of the plant. If your pet consumes a significant amount of the plant and displays symptoms, consulting with a veterinarian is advisable.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Papaver rhoeas, commonly known as the common poppy, has bright, showy flowers that enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Attracts Pollinators: The blooms attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, supporting pollination in the garden.
- Easy to Grow: Common poppies are easy to cultivate from seeds and can thrive in a range of soil types, making them suitable for novice gardeners.
- Drought-Tolerant: Once established, they are quite drought-resistant, requiring minimal watering which is beneficial in dry climates or during water restrictions.
- Self-seeding: They can self-sow and naturalize an area, ensuring a continuous display of flowers in the subsequent years without additional planting.
- Wildlife Habitat: The plants can provide shelter and food for small wildlife, enhancing biodiversity.
- Erosion Control: Their root system helps to stabilize the soil, which can be beneficial on slopes or in areas prone to erosion.
- Seasonal Interest: Common poppies offer seasonal interest with their distinctive spring and early summer blooms.
- Edible Seeds: Although not a primary reason for growing ornamental varieties, poppies can produce seeds that are edible and used in baking and cooking.
- Companion Planting: They can be used in companion planting to help protect vegetables from pests, due to their ability to attract natural predators.
Medical Properties- Calming agent: The petals of the common poppy (Papaver rhoeas) have been traditionally used for their mild sedative effects.
- Cough suppressant: Poppy derivatives from Papaver rhoeas have properties that may reduce cough reflex.
- Soothing sore throat: Poppy petals can be used in teas to provide relief for a sore throat.
- Anti-inflammatory: Poppy contains compounds that may decrease inflammation, particularly in the throat and mouth when used for gargling.
- Sleep aid: Due to its sedative effects, the common poppy has been used to promote sleep.
- Pain relief: Poppy has been historically used for alleviating pain, though efficacy and safety are not scientifically established.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Red Poppy petals can be used as a natural dye for fabrics and textiles, imparting subtle shades of pink or red.
- The dried seedpods of the Red Poppy can be utilized in floral arrangements, providing an aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting element of texture and shape.
- Pressed Red Poppy flowers can be used in the art of decoupage to adorn objects like furniture, candles, or picture frames, creating unique decorative pieces.
- With its vibrant color, the Red Poppy can serve as a natural pigment in hand-crafted paints, providing an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic colorants.
- The Red Poppy's distinctive shape makes it suitable for use as a stencil or stamp in craft projects, adding its silhouette to various materials like paper or fabric.
- Red Poppy petals can be incorporated into paper-making to create artisanal paper with embedded flower parts, which is often used in invitations or stationery.
- The plant can be used in educational settings as a tool to discuss important historical events like World War I, where Poppies became a symbol of remembrance.
- The Red Poppy's strong visual appeal makes it perfect for inclusion in photography projects, whether as a focal point or a contrasting background.
- Edible Red Poppy petals can be used as a colorful garnish on desserts, salads, or cocktails, adding a floral and slightly nutty flavor.
- Red Poppy plants can be grown as part of a natural pest control strategy in gardens, attracting beneficial insects and deterring specific pests.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Corn Poppy is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Corn Poppy is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Remembrance: Papaver rhoeas, commonly known as the common poppy or Flanders poppy, is often associated with remembrance, especially in relation to soldiers who have died during wartime.
- Sleep and Peace: The poppy has long been connected with sleep because of the opiate properties found in some species. 'Picotee Mixed' may not have those properties, but it still symbolizes a peaceful rest, sometimes eternal.
- Consolation: Due to its connection with remembrance of those lost in war, poppies also symbolize consolation for the loss and pain of loved ones.
- Imagination: The poppy has a history of being associated with imagination, possibly due to its dream-inducing qualities, inspiring a sense of wonder.
- Extravagance: With their bright colors and bold appearance, poppies symbolize luxury and success, reflecting a kind of extravagant beauty.
- Resilience: Poppies often grow in disturbed earth, sometimes blooming in battlefields after war, symbolizing the resilience and ability to recover after challenging times.
WaterCorn Poppy should be watered deeply and infrequently to encourage a strong root system. Aim to water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week, with adjustments being made for rainfall and temperature. Provide about 1 to 1.5 gallons per watering session, ensuring even moisture penetration throughout the soil. During hot and dry periods, increase water frequency to prevent the soil from drying out completely. Less water may be needed during cooler or rainy periods to avoid waterlogging.
LightCorn Poppy thrives in full sun, receiving at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. Plant in a location where it can enjoy unfiltered sunlight for most of the day, as ample sunlight is crucial for optimal flowering and growth. Avoid overly shaded areas which can lead to poor flowering and leggy plants.
TemperatureCorn Poppy prefers a temperate climate with a growing range between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit for ideal growth. It can endure minimum temperatures down to about 14 degrees Fahrenheit and maximum temperatures around 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure outside of its ideal temperature range may hinder its performance.
PruningPruning Corn Poppy primarily involves deadheading spent flowers to encourage further blooming and prevent self-seeding if desired. Trim back the faded flowers regularly during the blooming season. Cut back the foliage to ground level once it has died back naturally in late fall or early winter to keep the planting area tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Corn Poppy should be well-draining and fertile, with a mix of loam, sand, and compost. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingCorn Poppies are typically grown as annuals and do not usually require repotting. They prefer to grow undisturbed and should be sown directly where they are to flower.
Humidity & MistingCorn Poppies prefer a moderate humidity level but are quite adaptable and can tolerate a range of humidity conditions, provided they are not in waterlogged soil.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, well-draining soil mix, and avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil; direct sow in spring.
Hardiness zone
2-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Papaver rhoeas 'Picotee Mixed', commonly known as field poppy, begins with seed germination, which occurs in temperate climates once the soil has warmed up in spring. The seeds develop into small seedlings with a rosette of leaves close to the ground. As they mature, the plants form upright stems and foliage, preparing for the flowering stage. Flowering typically happens in late spring to early summer, when the poppies showcase their delicate petals with characteristic picotee edging. After pollination, often by insects, the plants produce distinctive seed pods that release seeds once they dry out. These seeds can lie dormant until the next appropriate germination period, completing the life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The common corn poppy, Papaver rhoeas 'Picotee Mixed', typically propagated by seeds, is ideally sowed directly into the garden. The best time for sowing is in fall or early spring when the temperature is cool, which helps with germination. When sowing, scatter the tiny seeds lightly onto the surface of well-drained soil and do not cover them as they need light to germinate. Gently press the seeds into the soil to ensure they make good contact but avoid burying them. Maintain consistent moisture until germination, which usually takes around 14 to 28 days. Once seedlings have grown strong enough, they can be thinned out to stand 6 to 8 inches (about 15 to 20 centimeters) apart to prevent overcrowding and promote healthy growth.
