Papaver Orientale

Papaver orientale is a lovely perennial poppy for both the cut flower and pollinator garden. Hardy in planting zones 3 through 9, these perennial poppies are easy to grow and drought tolerant once established. Eden Brothers has varieties available in shades of plum, rose, cream, and a mix of different shades. Grow these easy-to-plant bulbs for gorgeous, frilly blooms well through spring and summer.

• A deer resistant perennial that thrives in full sun
• Large, papery blooms in shades of orange, red, pink, purple, and salmon
• Great for container gardens and cut flower gardens
• Drought tolerant perennial in zones 3 through 9

Papaver orientale, more commonly known as Oriental poppy, is a delight in the garden. This perennial poppy blooms as early as late May in some regions, growing three to four feet tall. Native to Eurasia, papaver orientale boasts papery, cup-shaped blooms that pollinators love. These beauties perfectly bridge the gap between spring bulbs and warm-season annuals.

Papaver orientale seedstock is available, but ordering rootstock is the quickest way to establish papaver orientale as a perennial in the garden. Oriental poppies are cool-season flowers and thrive in planting zones in zones 3 through 9.

To plant papaver orientale, pick a planting site with good drainage that receives full sun. You may need to add compost, peat moss, or sand to improve the soil. Dig a hole at least 10 inches deep. Bury the roots and cover them with at least three inches of soil. Water the roots in and step back to watch them grow!

Papaver orientale blooms are gorgeous in cut flower bouquets and arrangements. They are ready to cut when the buds are cracked or have just begun to open and show color. It sounds counterintuitive, but dunk the freshly cut stems into boiling water, or burn the tips briefly with a propane torch. To get the most cuts out of your papaver orientale, be sure to deadhead spent blooms but leave some seed pods to dry for dried arrangements, too!

Papaver orientale flowers attract pollinators and deter deer and rabbits, making them wonderful companion plants for your vegetable garden. Papaver orientale is a low-maintenance plant that isn't too picky about soil or moisture. Most poppies are drought tolerant and thrive when left alone.

Whether you intend to grow papaver orientale as a cut flower or to bring in pollinators, this plant holds a myriad of benefits for your garden. Eden Brothers has no shortage of isolated colors and mixes to choose from. Stagger a few different varieties to have a colorful display all season long. For more information about planting, growing, and harvesting papaver oriental roots, see the Papaver Orientale Planting Guide.